Oman is gearing up for a significant national dialogue as preparations intensify for the “Together Forward” Forum, scheduled to take place on February 8th and 9th, 2026. With over 8,600 Omani citizens already registered, the forum promises to be a powerful platform for community partnership and inclusive decision-making. This annual event, organized by the Secretariat General of the Council of Ministers, is a cornerstone of Oman’s commitment to citizen engagement in shaping the nation’s future.
The “Together Forward” Forum: Fostering Community Partnership in Oman
The “Together Forward” Forum isn’t just another conference; it’s a deliberate effort to embed the principle of community partnership directly into the process of governance. The upcoming 4th edition builds on the successes of previous iterations, aiming to create a more collaborative and representative system. This focus on inclusivity is vital for Oman’s continued progress and development, ensuring that policies and initiatives truly reflect the needs and aspirations of its people. The Secretariat General of the Council of Ministers views this forum as a crucial step towards a more participatory government.
Registration Statistics: A Diverse Representation
The impressive registration numbers – exceeding 8,600 citizens – speak volumes about the Omani public’s desire to contribute to national discourse. A significant 68 percent of registrants are male, while 32 percent are female, indicating a growing, though still imbalanced, participation of women in national forums. This highlights the ongoing need to encourage greater female representation in decision-making processes.
Educational and Professional Backgrounds of Participants
A detailed look at the registrant demographics reveals a highly educated and engaged citizenry. Notably, 46 percent of those registered hold a Bachelor’s degree, demonstrating a strong emphasis on higher education within Oman. Furthermore, 41 percent of registrants are employed in the public sector, suggesting a substantial interest from those directly involved in implementing government policies. This blend of academic and professional experience will undoubtedly enrich the discussions at the forum.
Additionally, the diversity of participants extends beyond education and employment. The Secretariat General of the Council of Ministers is committed to ensuring representation from all of Oman’s governorates, as well as across various professional categories and social backgrounds. This commitment to inclusive governance is a key differentiator of the “Together Forward” Forum.
Ensuring Balanced Representation: The Sorting Process
With such a high level of interest, a careful selection process is essential to ensure a truly representative gathering. The Secretariat General of the Council of Ministers will undertake a thorough sorting process to curate the final list of attendees. This isn’t about excluding qualified individuals, but rather about creating a balanced and diverse group that accurately reflects the demographics and perspectives of Oman as a whole.
Criteria for Selection
The sorting process will be guided by specific criteria designed to achieve this balance. These criteria include ensuring representation from all of Oman’s governorates, reflecting the diverse professional landscape, considering academic qualifications, and promoting social diversity. This multi-faceted approach aims to avoid any single group dominating the discussions and to foster a genuinely inclusive environment. The goal is to maximize the value of the national dialogue and ensure that all voices are heard.
The organizers understand that a successful forum relies on a broad range of perspectives. Therefore, the selection process will prioritize individuals who can contribute constructively to the discussions and offer unique insights based on their experiences. This focus on quality of contribution, alongside demographic representation, will be crucial in shaping the forum’s outcomes.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of the Forum
The “Together Forward” Forum represents a significant investment in Oman’s future. By actively engaging citizens in the decision-making process, the government is fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. This, in turn, can lead to more effective policies, greater social cohesion, and a stronger sense of national identity. The outcomes of the forum are expected to inform future government strategies and initiatives, ensuring they are aligned with the needs and aspirations of the Omani people.
The success of this forum hinges on continued participation and engagement. The Secretariat General of the Council of Ministers encourages all registered participants to prepare to contribute their ideas and perspectives. The “Together Forward” Forum is more than just an event; it’s an ongoing process of citizen engagement and a testament to Oman’s commitment to a brighter future. Further details regarding the forum’s agenda and specific discussion topics will be released in the coming months, allowing participants to adequately prepare for this important national event.
