MUSCAT : As women in the country celebrate this glorious day, today, the spotlight is on achievers who have, with their endearing stories, carved a special niche in the nation’s strategic growth with their grit, courage, perseverance and resilience. Whether it is the housewife who plays her role as a caregiver to the family, or the scientist who spearheads research and innovation to create newer benchmarks for excellence, Oman has its share and more of empowered women who are inspirations for the current and future generations.

They have taken on the responsibility of partnering with the nation with fervour and dedication, and have, at every level of Oman’s development, set newer milestones to emulate. They continue to fulfil the vision of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, who stated the following to uphold the value of equality embedded in the Basic Law: “Our country, undoubtedly, needs both men and women in its blessed march forward, just like a bird that relies on its two wings to soar high in the sky. Citizens’ partnership in molding the country’s present and future is a basic pillar of national action where we hope that women will enjoy their rights as guaranteed by law, and that they will work in different fields along with men, in serving their country and society. We reiterate our continuous patronage of these national fundamentals which cannot be compromised”

This conducive environment has empowered Omani women to be partners in shaping a bright and sustainable future; it has helped leverage their skills and knowledge at the local, regional and global levels. Under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik and the patronage of Her Highness the Honourable Lady Ahd Abdullah Hamed Al Busaidi, Spouse of the Sultan of His Majesty, Omani women continue to enjoy support and guidance in fulfilling their responsibilities. In a speech delivered during her first public appearance, the Honourable Lady commended every woman who contributes to building the nation. She said, “Omani women have taken their deserved place in public and private sectors and their historic influence has earned them accolades at home and abroad”.

On their part, Omani women have fulfilled the trust reposed on them by ensuring their presence in every facet of the society’s development. Today, they occupy top positions in the public and private sector, enlisting their support to ensure Oman’s progress and development as enumerated under the Oman Vision 2040.

In the recent times, Omani women have made headlines with commendable achievements in diverse fields. Of particular significance is the top honour for Sumaiya Al Busaidi, who won the ‘Stars of Science’ award in a historic first. Back in 2019, Omani author Jokha Al Harthi achieved the top global recognition with the Man Booker International Prize for her novel ‘Celestial Bodies’.

Oman’s yesterday and today is replete with such inspirational stories, whether it is academics, sports, fine arts, business or economic and social strata; they have won hearts of the local and international bodies with their sheer skills and knowledge. Oman’s tomorrow promises to be spectacular with the leading roles played by contemporary women in all sphere of life.