Musqat: A student enterprise at Abu Darda’ School for Boys in the Wilayat of Ibri is utilizing mesquite trees to create premium goods, supported by the Ministry of Education's commitment to fostering student innovation and entrepreneurial skills.
The company, known as Salaba, specializes in crafting wooden products such as parquet flooring from mesquite trees.
These items are eco-friendly, resistant to pests, easy to assemble, and possess excellent heat insulation and moisture resistance properties. Yousef bin Mohammed Al Hinai, a career guidance specialist overseeing the student team, highlighted that the idea for Salaba arose during discussions about the negative environmental impact of mesquite tree removal campaigns.
Recognizing the potential of mesquite wood in the woodworking industry, the team aims to not only repurpose the trees but also reduce the costs and efforts associated with their removal.
Al Hinai mentioned that the company secured the necessary permits to source mesquite wood, along with a certification for its suitability. Additionally, the student enterprise has entered into a partnership agreement with a manufacturing ally to produce these innovative products.
Muayyad bin Muslim Al Sarkhi, the Head of the student company, expressed that the company has received significant support and encouragement from multiple institutions. These include the General Directorate of Agriculture and Water Resources in Al Dhahirah Governorate, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry branch in Al Dhahirah Governorate, the Vocational College in Ibri, and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences branch in Ibri.
According to Muayyad bin Muslim Al Sarkhi, the company aims to diversify its range of products made from mesquite trees and expand its presence in both local and international markets. Their ultimate goal is to become a leading company in the wooden flooring manufacturing industry. This initiative showcases the students' strong desire to venture into entrepreneurship and innovation, aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
The vision emphasizes the creation of a generation that actively contributes to the localization of various industries, achieving global recognition, and expanding Omani industries across different sectors.
