MUSCAT : In a remarkable celebration of innovation and environmental stewardship, ABA Oman International School won the award for the Most Practical Sustainable Initiative at the ESO Sustainability Fair 2025, held at the Sheraton Oman. This accolade recognizes the school’s pioneering project focused on the preservation and regeneration of Oman’s vital mangrove ecosystems.

Led by Sustainability Coordinator Mr. Ruairidh MacKenzie and Faculty Coordinator Ciara Gillespie, the ABA ECOSOC brought together a dedicated group of students whose diverse expertise fueled the success of this initiative. The team, comprising Sarah Luisa-Emmer (Team Leader), Nara Molavi (Research Lead), Angela Jabbour (Presentation Lead), Dylan Le Ribeus (Model Design), Sami Al-Busaidi (Model Construction), alongside Alexandra Serret and Malaak Mohamed, worked collaboratively to champion the cause of mangrove conservation.

Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. Despite both their ecological and economic significance, research into mangrove health has been hindered by limited funding, historical oversight, and a shortage of specialized expertise. ABA Oman International School’s project aims to address these challenges through the development of a Mangrove Monitoring App. This innovative application integrates the use of Google Earth for remote tracking, on-ground field research, and active support for mangrove regeneration efforts, while also raising public awareness about the critical role these ecosystems play in protecting Oman’s coastline from erosion and storm surges.

The project also serves as a broader school initiative, embodying ABA’s commitment to environmental conservation, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering community engagement. By emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of Oman’s natural landscape, the initiative bridges environmental conservation with local heritage. This fosters a comprehensive understanding of sustainability among students and the wider community, aligning with ABA’s vision of “innovative and authentic learning in a diverse and creative community where sustainability and individual growth are to the betterment of all.” By prioritizing both environmental conservation and individual development, ABA continues to create a lasting impact on students, the community, and the environment.

“Ultimately in collaboration with the Oman Environmental Authority, we hope that ABA becomes a key player in a longer term research project collecting data and monitoring the impacts of invasive plant species on mangrove health, as well as potential other future threats. In addition, we hope to develop effective science based methods for their removal,” said Ruairidh MacKenzie.

This prestigious award at the ESO Sustainability Fair underscores ABA’s leadership in sustainable education and innovation, setting a benchmark for future projects that aim to blend technology, research, and community action to protect our natural environment.

The Sustainability Fair, organized by The Environment Society of Oman (ESO), was initiated by the Oman American Business Council (OABC) in 2020. This event brings together various international schools and showcases SMEs, organizations, and businesses that are contributing to sustainability in Oman.

ABA Oman International School is a leading educational institution in Muscat, dedicated to delivering high-quality international education through the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. With a focus on sustainability, global citizenship, and academic excellence, ABA empowers students to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners. For more information, please visit the ABA website www.abaoman.org.