MUSCAT: The ‘Mustaqil’ programme, launched in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the SMEs Development Authority (Riyada), aims to instil a culture of entrepreneurship and independent work among school students in Oman. Running from July 7 to September 18, 2025, the three-month programme is being held in 11 institutions across the Sultanate, including Sohar University, Ibri Club, Al Sharqiyah University, and the Special Economic Zone Authority in Duqm. A total of 330 students from grades 10 to 12, representing all governorates, are participating to develop foundational freelancing and digital service skills.
The programme delivers a rich blend of professional and cultural content to prepare students for the freelance economy, including training on creating digital portfolios, understanding client relations, and building a career on global freelancing platforms. It also promotes early entrepreneurial thinking, empowering students to transform personal passions into income-generating ventures. Through structured coaching and hands-on sessions, participants gain exposure to the realities of today’s digital marketplace while receiving institutional support to foster innovation and leadership.
Education officials highlighted the programme’s relevance amid fast-paced economic changes. Samira Al Tal’ee of the Education Ministry’s Career Guidance Centre noted that ‘Mustaqil’ bridges the gap between academic learning and the demands of real-world business. With freelancing growing as a viable career path, she emphasized the importance of nurturing students’ awareness and readiness from an early age. The initiative aligns with national efforts to develop future-ready youth equipped with marketable skills.
Halima Ibrahim Al Balushi, Career Guidance Supervisor in Muscat Governorate, praised the programme’s ability to cultivate students’ digital and entrepreneurial talents. She described ‘Mustaqil’ as an engaging, skill-based initiative that reflects Oman Vision 2040 goals by promoting self-reliance, innovation, and a productive mindset among youth. The programme stands as a model for institutional collaboration in building a dynamic and sustainable future for Oman’s younger generations.
