MUSCAT: In line with its pioneering role in providing Islamic financial services and products in the Sultanate of Oman, Meethaq Islamic Banking from Bank Muscat has extended its support to Siraj Education Endowment Foundation. Under the terms of the partnership, Meethaq will provide the necessary facilities for collecting contributions, donations and aid from the public through its various channels including its large network of branches, ATMs, CDMs and FFMs as well as Internet and Mobile Banking platforms. The partnership will further enhance Meethaq’s role in Public-Private Partnership in various fields and sectors.

Since its inception in 2019, the Siraj Education Endowment Foundation has been working tirelessly to achieve its goals, including the development of a Waqf to support and sponsor educational programmes and supporting talented students in need, through mobilising public donations. Siraj also focuses on enhancing social solidarity by spreading awareness about the importance of educational Waqf. The donations to the Siraj Education Endowment Foundation can be made through Meethaq account 0631500571440001 by both the bank’s customers and the general public through branches and various e-channels. Meethaq will implement a special awareness campaign to reach out to its customers and the general public through various media channels including radio and social media, text messages, emails and social messages on ATMS and CDMs.

On this occasion, Her Excellency Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al Mahrouqiyah, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Siraj Education Endowment Foundation, said: “We are delighted with the strong support and partnership that Meethaq Islamic Banking has extended to the Siraj Education Endowment Foundation. Innovative products and services are required to meet the evolving needs of the public, including utilisation of Waqf in compliance with Shari’a laws. Meethaq’s partnership will enable Siraj to assist talented Omani students from social welfare families and students with disabilities to complete their higher studies and contribute to Omani society to the best of their abilities. The institution focuses on contributing towards the development of education, financing scientific research and innovation and enhancing the quality of education at different levels, which is very much in line with the strategic goals of Oman Vision 2040. 

Sheikh Waleed K. Al Hashar, Chief Executive Officer, Bank Muscat, said: “We are pleased to partner with the Siraj Education Endowment Foundation so as to provide facilities that will support the development of a Waqf that contributes to higher education, scientific research and innovation in the Sultanate. This will be particularly helpful for talented students who require financial support to achieve their goal of contributing to the National Economy through effective participation in the job market. As the pioneer of Islamic banking in the Sultanate, Meethaq is always keen to strengthen its partnership with government institutions and corporates in Oman to provide the services and facilities, which are compliant and in accordance with the principles of Islamic Sharia’a. We wish Siraj all the success in achieving their worthy goals, and request everyone to contribute to the success of the Foundation through their valuable donations and support.”

The establishment of different Waqf institutions in the Sultanate is an important step to promote social development and the good of the Omani society. Meethaq has been a pioneer in supporting charitable endowments, and will work to further strengthen its partnership with different Waqf institutions so as to achieve economic, social and philanthropic development in the Sultanate.

Earlier in 2017, Meethaq had extended support to the Organisation of a Waqf launched by the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs. The initiative was the first-of-its-kind, reflecting the preparedness for innovative utilisation of Waqf for the good of the nation and opened new horizons with a modern vision for philanthropy. In 2018, Ministry of Awqaf and Meethaq conducted a joint campaign through the media, lectures, workshops and social media to spread awareness of the Waqf and its importance for the people of Oman. Meethaq Islamic Banking is one of the first institutions in the Sultanate which has been spreading awareness of the importance of Waqf. Meethaq is keen to interact and participate in various activities and events, which contribute to social development across various fields and sectors.