Muscat: UNICEF Oman, in partnership with government officials, business stakeholders, and community leaders, launched an engaging “Listen to the Future” campaign throughout the Sultanate of Oman. This initiative emphasized the voices of children and demonstrated Oman’s dedication to their rights, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
This campaign coincides with the celebration of World Children’s Day (WCD) and the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC35). This year’s theme focused on the critical need to elevate children’s voices in addressing urgent global issues and ensuring a brighter future for all children.
To support this initiative, UNICEF Oman facilitated a series of roundtable discussions across the country. These gatherings included students from the South Al Batinah and Al Dakhiliyah Governorates, alongside key decision-makers such as Dr. Hilal Al-Sabti, the Minister of Health, and Dr. Rashid Al Balushi, the Chairman of the Oman Human Rights Commission, to encourage meaningful conversations about children’s rights and the challenges they encounter.
The discussions were led by Yahya Badr Al Mawali, Governor of South Al Sharqiyah, and Sheikh Saleh Dhiyab Al Rubaiey, Wali of Nizwa.
The “Listen to the Future” campaign witnessed exceptional collaboration among UN agencies, community leaders, and social media influencers, who came together to promote a unified message of support for the children of Oman, starting from November 20th, which also aligns with the festive season of Oman’s national day.
As we commemorate World Children’s Day and the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, we reaffirm our dedication to collaborating with the Government of Oman, partners, and the community to safeguard, empower, and amplify the voices of every child, stated Sumaira Chowdhury, UNICEF Oman’s Representative.
Chowdhury further emphasized that, “Together, we are shaping a future that aligns with Oman Vision 2040, ensuring that children remain central to the nation’s development.”
Hamad Al-Alawi, an 8th-grade student from Abul Rahman bin Auf School in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate, shared his thoughts on this year's World Children's Day theme, noting, “This slogan resonates with me, as it underscores the vital importance of listening to students’ perspectives on issues that affect us and engaging in discussions to find solutions from our viewpoint.”
UNICEF Oman’s ongoing partnerships reflect the nation’s commitment to prioritizing children in its development strategy, in line with Oman Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiatives organized this year highlight the collective responsibility to foster a future where every child's rights are respected and their potential is fully realized.
