News & Event

The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Education, is participating in the Professional Development Forum for National Coordinators in the field of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Education, which is being held in Hong Kong, China, from 4 to 8 August 2025. The forum is jointly organized by the International Centre for UNESCO Affiliated Schools Network (ICUA) and the UNESCO Chair at the University of Hong Kong. The forum aims to enable teachers to integrate intangible cultural heritage into curricula and develop teaching methods, and to inspire teachers and young people to be active contributors to the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of global harmony.

Yusriya Al Harthi, Director of the UNESCO Affiliated Schools Department, Youth Programs and UNESCO Clubs at the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science - a member of the Board of Directors of the International Centre for UNESCO Affiliated Schools Network - reviewed the Sultanate of Oman's experience in the UNESCO Affiliated Schools Network, pointing to the importance of cultural exchange as a bridge for understanding and peacebuilding. She also reviewed some of the successful national programs in the Sultanate of Oman, including the Intangible Cultural Heritage Across Continents Project, in cooperation with the Republics of Croatia and Denmark. The project aims to enhance students' intercultural communication skills and instill pride in their national identity and belonging, enabling students to highlight their culture and history, and preparing them to represent the Sultanate of Oman in regional and international forums.

It is worth noting that the International Centre for UNESCO Affiliated Schools Network (ICUA) in the People's Republic of China is an educational center supporting the UNESCO Affiliated Schools Network. It encourages international cooperation and innovation through knowledge production, capacity building, technical support, and information exchange. It also contributes to achieving the fourth goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Center enables students, teachers, and communities to participate in shaping a future of peace and sustainability through capacity development, youth engagement, research, and international cooperation.