MUSCAT : Public Relations students at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences organised a book talk by author Khaled Mukhaini featuring his recent book, ‘The Road to Sur’, at the University library today. Mr Sultan Saif Al Sarai, Deputy of the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Electronic Systems and Student Services at UTAS Sur, and Ms Hana Juma Al Sulaimi, head of the mass communication department, attended the discussion in the presence of staff and students.

During the engaging interaction, Al Mukhaini shared his profound reflections and the inspiring journey that led to the creation of ‘The Road to Sur’. The book delves into various hypotheses that hint at a historical relationship and movement of the Omani “Janaba” tribe from the central region, where they were nomads, to the southeast (city of Sur), where they mastered the seas.

The author discussed the tribe’s possible connection to ancient civilizations and their transformation from animal gazing to becoming skilled seafarers and shipbuilders.

While unfolding chapters of the book, Al Mukhaini revealed how people used to learn navigation in the past. Parents would take their children between the ages of 13 and 18 and teach them how to practically use a map, showing them how to place longitude and latitude lines on it. Once the children understood navigation well, they become qualified to command a ship under the supervision of a captain. Shipbuilding lessons would start at the age of 10. Parents would take their children to the carpenter, who would teach them in two shifts. Becoming skilled in shipbuilding could take up to five years.

The book highlights significance of the distinct identity of Sur, such as its maritime vocabulary, daggers, and clothing, and how it has managed to preserve its trade and ships. The author also mentions that the people of the Gulf still regard Sur as a primary port for supplies in this region.

The book talk was organized as part of the public awareness campaign’ Legacy’. Public relations students initiated this campaign to mainly to promote the tourism potential of Sur, raise awareness about job prospects in the tourism sector, and encourage sustainable tourism practices in the region.

Ms Maryam Al-Masharafi, a public relations student at the university, said that the talk by the writer was both exciting and engaging. She also mentioned that it contained a lot of new information about the historical past of Sur. Maryam believes that this presentation may help the new generation to learn more about the rich heritage of this land.

Al-Mukhaini is the editor-in-chief of Bahurna magazine, a researcher interested in maritime heritage, and the author of three books, including ‘The Road to Sur, Samha and the Raise of the Phoenix.’

Ahmed Al-Jaradi, a public relations student and member of the campaign organising team, offered a vote of thanks and said the talk was an invaluable opportunity to learn about the ancient and long history of the coastal city of Sur.