Oman has cultivated a unique atmosphere of cooperation between genders. Men and women work hand in hand to shape the future of the country, with an emphasis on mutual respect and collaboration, says Hon. Dr Shamsa Masoud Nasser Al Sheibani, member, Omani State Council.
DR SHAMSA SHEIBANI was speaking to the Purple online as part of the Omani Women’s Day, which is celebrated on October 17, when she made the above comments.
Significant strides
“Omani women have made significant strides in education, employment, and leadership roles. This is the result of visionary policies and an evolving societal mindset that supports women’s advancement,” Dr Sheibani noted.
On parShe added that not only have Omani women “made great progress”, in many ways, they are also “on par with women from around the world”.
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.
Women’s Day in Oman goes beyond celebrating womanhood; it serves as a reflection of the tremendous strides women have made in various aspects of life. While gender equality and breaking biases are global concerns, Oman has cultivated a unique atmosphere of cooperation between genders. Men and women work hand in hand to shape the future of the country, with an emphasis on mutual respect and collaboration. Women in Oman are increasingly visible in leadership roles across sectors—government, business, academia, and beyond. The focus here is not just on celebrating gender but on recognising the diverse forms of success, whether in professional achievements, contributions to society, or personal development. This integrated approach strengthens the broader goal of national progress, where both men and women play pivotal roles.
How would you view the growth and advancement of Omani women in the last many years?
Over the last few decades, Omani women have made significant strides in education, employment, and leadership roles. This is the result of visionary policies and an evolving societal mindset that supports women’s advancement. The rise of women in key leadership positions, such as the State Council and major corporate entities, is testament to the growing recognition of their potential. Women are excelling not only in traditional sectors but also in new fields such as science, technology, and entrepreneurship. Government initiatives, educational reforms, and cultural shifts have all contributed to the remarkable growth of Omani women, enabling them to contribute more significantly to the nation’s socio-economic development.
With regards to the advancement, would you say that today the Omani woman is on par with any other woman of the world? If not, what more should be done?
Omani women have made great progress and in many ways are on par with women from around the world. The nation has empowered women through educational opportunities and legal frameworks that support equality. However, there is always room for further progress. Continued efforts in promoting women’s leadership, breaking stereotypes, and fostering a culture of inclusivity will ensure that Omani women continue to advance on the global stage. While the foundation has been laid, there should be a focus on increasing women’s participation in top-tier decision-making roles and supporting their presence in STEM fields, creative industries, and international diplomacy. As these areas grow, Omani women will continue to compete on an international level while contributing to the country’s development.
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