Omani women’s day – celebration transcends conventional views of womanhood – Malak Abdullah Al Zadjali

by | Oct 20, 2024 | 0 comments

The Omani Women’s Day is a celebration that transcends conventional views of womanhood, according to MALAK ABDULLAH AL ZADJALI, International Cooperation Associate at Central Bank of Oman.
Collaboration between genders
“It (Omani women’s day) shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of Omani women across diverse realms – be it education, healthcare, business, or leadership. This day underscores the vital role of collaboration between genders in crafting an inclusive society,” Malak Al Zadjali told Purple online.

Forward-thinking approach

There is an emphasis on empowering women and championing gender equality in Oman. “This reflects a forward-thinking approach to societal advancement. The synergy of men and women working hand in hand not only fortifies the community, but also helps propel the nation’s growth,” she said.

EXCERPTS:

Women’s Day generally brings forth many thoughts: women’s equality/gender parity; women’s rights and the foremost need to break the bias (against women). Here, in Oman, could we say that it is more than just celebrating womanhood; here it is celebrating the success (various types of success, not just the monetary kind) of Omani women and also the unique integration between the two genders, who are working together to achieve a better future for Oman? Your thoughts on this.
Absolutely. Omani Women’s Day is a celebration that transcends conventional views of womanhood, shining a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of Omani women across diverse realms – be it education, healthcare, business, or leadership. This day underscores the vital role of collaboration between genders in crafting an inclusive society. In Oman, the emphasis on empowering women and championing gender equality reflects a forward-thinking approach to societal advancement. The synergy of men and women working hand in hand not only fortifies the community, but also helps propel the nation’s growth. This day serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the ongoing journey toward greater equality and respect for women’s rights, all the while honouring the rich cultural tapestry of Oman.

How would you view the growth and advancement of Omani women in the last many years? What would you like to say about that?
The growth and advancement of Omani women over the past several years is truly inspiring. Women in Oman have made significant strides in education, employment, and also in taking leading roles. Thanks to the government’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, Omani women are now making their mark across various sectors, from politics to business and the arts.
Many women are pursuing higher education and breaking into fields traditionally dominated by men, enriching the economy and society with their diverse contributions. This transformation has been fuelled by initiatives and policies designed to uplift women’s rights and expand their opportunities.Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that while strides have been made, challenges remain. Continued efforts are necessary to ensure that all women have equal access to opportunities. Celebrating the achievements of Omani women not only inspire future generations but also emphasises the ongoing need for support in the quest for gender equality. Overall, their journey is emblematic of a broader movement towards empowerment and inclusivity.

Also, with regards to the advancement, would you say that today the Omani women are on par with other women of the world? If not, what more should be done?
Omani women, like women everywhere, possess unique strengths, face unique challenges, and encounter diverse opportunities. In recent years, Oman has made remarkable strides toward promoting gender equality and empowering women through advancements in education, healthcare, and workforce participation. However, like many countries, cultural and social barriers still linger at times, which can hinder their full potential.
Yet, one could argue that this notion of “being on par with any other woman of the world” is subjective. Each individual’s interpretation of equality varies based on their perspective. Instead of merely aiming for parity with women worldwide, our focus should be on creating more opportunities – such as fostering female entrepreneurship and offering flexible work arrangements. The progress made in gender equality so far is commendable, and we remain hopeful that women’s involvement in all facets of life continue to flourish. Our ambition is to achieve even greater heights and witness more positive changes.

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