Muscat: The University of Technology and Applied Sciences participated in the Sixth Arab Scout Youth Forum, hosted in Abu Dhabi with the participation of youth delegations from various Arab Scout associations, within the age group of 18 to 26. The forum is considered one of the most prominent regional events dedicated to enhancing youth participation in decision-making within the Arab Scout Movement. It is traditionally held prior to the Arab Scout Conference and within the same month. 

The forum serves as a vital platform for empowering young people to discuss their priority issues and present their recommendations to the Arab Scout Conference. It is also an educational activity that contributes to preparing qualified young leaders by enabling and integrating them into scouting work pathways. The forum also witnesses the election of the Arab Scout Youth Advisors Committee, which is responsible for representing youth perspectives and supporting the Arab Scout Committee in enhancing youth engagement in decision-making at the regional level. 

Regarding the importance of participation, student Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Zadjali from the Sultanate of Oman s delegation said: “Participating in the Arab Scout Youth Forum is a pivotal opportunity to activate the role of youth in the decision-making process within the Arab Scout Movement. The forum allows them to discuss priority issues and submit practical recommendations that help guide the work of the Arab Scout Conference. It also provides participants with hands-on experience in leadership and governance, enhancing their readiness to assume leadership roles within their national associations”. 

Also, student Lubna Salem Al-Harthi expressed her impressions about the forum, saying: “The forum enables participants to build a wide network of connections, exchange experiences, and learn about best scouting practices. It is a dynamic event full of enthusiasm and interaction among participants from various Arab countries”. She affirmed that the experience helps refine skills in dialogue, proposal writing, and teamwork, which positively reflects on their performance and future roles in developing the Scout Movement at the regional level. 

She added that the sessions of the Sixth Arab Scout Youth Forum featured in-depth discussions on youth empowerment, leadership, governance, digital transformation, and protection of young people from harm. The program also included cultural activities and knowledge-based visits in Abu Dhabi, enriching the experience with a blend of enjoyment and benefit. The workshops contributed to strengthening participants leadership skills, their ability to formulate recommendations, and their active participation in decision-making processes. 

The forum concluded by reaffirming its importance as a leading Arab platform for youth empowerment and for exploring new visions to advance the Scout Movement in the region, thereby strengthening the presence of the new generation in pathways of active participation and sustainable development.