The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Scientific College of Design, is implementing the “Young Crafters” Programme in Muscat aimed at preserving Omani traditional crafts and combining them with modern technology to create various designs. The vocational training project targets 30 students from Muscat Governorate, providing them with craft, vocational, and technical skills to instill pride in their cultural heritage and contribute to the local and global market. The programme focuses on increasing interest in crafts and traditional industries to boost economic production and enable students to train their peers in school on handicrafts. Skills such as metal shaping, pottery, ceramics, artistic works, graphic design, and photography are taught by professors specialized in these fields from the Scientific College of Design.
Ahmed Al-Sabhani, a senior educational researcher at the Department of Citizenship, highlighted that the programme consists of interactive workshops where students apply what they learn under the guidance of academic trainers from the Scientific College of Design. Divided into two parts, the first part focuses on graphic design using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator, as well as advertising photography. The second part involves training students in artistic works, metal shaping, ceramics making, or pottery based on their preferences. These workshops aim to preserve and develop Omani cultural legacies, enhance national identity, and align with Oman Vision (2040) priorities by supporting citizenship, incorporating technology in industries, developing students’ skills in using modern technology, fostering entrepreneurship, and training students in local and international marketing for local production.
The Young Crafters Programme strives to empower students with skills that contribute to their future careers and the preservation of Oman’s cultural heritage. By offering training in a variety of traditional crafts and modern design techniques, the programme aims to instill a sense of pride in students’ cultural identity and equip them with the tools needed to succeed in the local and global markets. Through hands-on workshops and guidance from experienced academic trainers, students are able to learn and apply new skills in graphic design, photography, metal shaping, ceramics, pottery, and artistic works.
The interactive nature of the workshops ensures that students are actively engaged in the learning process, allowing them to develop their skills and unleash their creativity. By dividing the programme into two parts – one focused on graphic design and photography, and the other on traditional crafts – students are able to explore different aspects of the creative process and discover their interests and aptitudes. This approach not only enhances their technical abilities but also encourages them to collaborate with their peers and share their knowledge and skills with others.
The Young Crafters Programme is a valuable initiative that not only benefits the students participating in the workshops but also contributes to the preservation and promotion of Omani cultural heritage. By combining traditional crafts with modern technology and design techniques, the programme ensures that these ancient traditions are passed down to future generations and remain relevant in today’s society. Through the development of practical skills and a deeper appreciation for their cultural roots, students are better positioned to succeed in their chosen fields and contribute to the growth and prosperity of their communities.
In conclusion, the Young Crafters Programme serves as a bridge between the past and the future, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to carry on the legacy of Omani crafts while embracing innovation and creativity. By fostering a sense of pride in their cultural heritage and empowering them with technical expertise, the programme offers students a unique opportunity to explore their creativity, develop their talents, and contribute to the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts. Through collaboration with experienced trainers and exposure to various design and craft techniques, students are not only learning valuable skills but also gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Oman.
