Oman Participates in UNESCO-Backed Forum on Intangible Cultural Heritage Education in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, The Gulf Observer: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Education, is actively participating in the Professional Development Forum for National Coordinators on Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Education, held in Hong Kong from August 4 to 8, 2025.
Jointly organized by the International Centre for UNESCO Associated Schools (ICUA) and the UNESCO Chair at the University of Hong Kong, the forum gathers education leaders and national coordinators to explore innovative strategies for integrating intangible cultural heritage into educational curricula. The event aims to empower educators and inspire youth to become proactive stewards of cultural heritage and global harmony.
Yasriya Sulaiman Al Harthy, Director of the UNESCO Associated Schools, Youth Programs, and Clubs Department at the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, and member of the ICUA Governing Council, delivered a presentation highlighting Oman’s contributions within the UNESCO Associated Schools Network. She emphasized the critical role of cultural exchange in fostering mutual understanding and building lasting peace.
Al Harthy also outlined successful initiatives from Oman, including the Cross-Continental Intangible Cultural Heritage Project—a collaboration with Croatia and Denmark. The program aims to strengthen students’ intercultural communication skills, reinforce national identity, and prepare Omani youth to represent their country in regional and international forums.
The ICUA, based in China, plays a pivotal role in supporting the global network of UNESCO-associated schools. Through capacity-building, technical support, and international cooperation, the center advances educational innovation and contributes directly to the achievement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4—ensuring inclusive, equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Oman’s participation in this forum underscores its continued commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting education as a cornerstone of peace, identity, and sustainable development.
