Tuesday 25 / February / 2025
Muscat: Ministry of Education in partnership with UNICEF Oman, is conducting the first evaluation of the Child-Friendly Education (CFE) initiative under the current Country Programme Document.
Initially piloted in 2012, the CFE initiative has since been implemented nationwide to foster inclusive, safe, and supportive learning environments.
The Ministry of Education plays a key role in this evaluation, aimed at assessing progress, identifying improvements, and guiding future interventions. A steering committee involving governorates across Oman, Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of health and Oman Vision 2020 follow-up Unit will review findings and shape the way forward, where the first meeting held on the 25th of February. Qualitative data collection is set for April 2025.
Shununa Al-Habsi, Representative of the Sultanate of Oman in the UNICEF Executive Board, Assistant Director General for Special Education and Continuous Education at the Ministry of Education, stated: “Oman’s commitment to advancing quality education remains solid. This evaluation will provide valuable insights to further enhance our education system and ensure that every child has access to a safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment.”
Dr. Bilal Al-Kiswani, Head of Programme at UNICEF Oman, added: “Child-Friendly Education is a cornerstone of UNICEF’s mission to promote inclusive and equitable learning opportunities. We are proud to work alongside the Ministry of Education to assess progress and identify new ways to enhance educational outcomes for all children in Oman presenting Oman as a good practice to the GCC region, regionally and globally.”
With 30% of Oman’s population aged 0-19, the country has made significant strides in education, achieving universal access with boys and girls parity. Education Law and Oman Vision 2040 prioritise inclusive education, governance, and lifelong learning, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal, and UNICEF’s global strategic plan ensuring that quality education and safe school environment is accessible by all the children in the country.
CFE focuses on child-centred teaching, safe environments, life skills integration, and community engagement. A dedicated CFE team within the Ministry of Education and key stakeholders will evaluate policies and procedures to enhance educational outcomes.
This joint effort reinforces Oman’s leadership in child-friendly education, setting a regional model for inclusive learning.
