Tuesday 23 / September / 2025
MUSCAT: In a vibrant exchange of ideas and a significant step toward bridging academic learning with real-world governance, the State Council of Oman recently opened its doors to a delegation of enthusiastic Commercial Law students from Modern College of Business and Science (MCBS). The tour provided an immersive journey into the heart of Omani legislative work, designed to inspire the next generation of leaders and promote a deeper appreciation for the nation's democratic institutions.
The visit served as a practical, engaging extension of the students' studies, bringing the theories of law, governance, and public administration to life within the very halls where national policies are debated and shaped.
The day's agenda was crafted to provide a comprehensive and intimate look at the State Council's operations. The students, a mix of enthusiastic legal minds and future business leaders, were first welcomed to a detailed awareness session. Here, senior officials from the Council shared invaluable insights into its crucial role as the upper house of Oman’s bicameral parliament. They detailed the Council's extensive responsibilities, from scrutinizing draft laws and development plans to offering expert recommendations on matters of national interest. This opportunity allowed the students to grasp the intricate machinery of the state, understanding how every proposed law and policy is carefully deliberated to ensure it serves the best interests of the Omani people. "You read about these processes in textbooks, but to hear it directly from the people who live and breathe this work every day is an entirely different experience," remarked Commercial Law student, Asma Al Barwani, clearly energised by the lecture.
Following the thought-provoking discussion, the delegation was led on a guided tour of the magnificent facilities. They walked through the grand halls, sat in the very seats where esteemed members of the State Council convene, and absorbed the solemn atmosphere of the main session hall. This firsthand glimpse of the Council's physical environment was more than just sightseeing; it was a chance to visualise the gravity and weight of the decisions made within those walls. The students’ faces were alit with curiosity as they absorbed every detail, from the impressive architectural design to the seamless integration of modern technology that facilitates the legislative process.
The visit culminated in a question-and-answer session where the students had the opportunity to engage directly with Council officials. They asked about everything from the challenges of policymaking to the future of legislative work in Oman. This open dialogue highlighted the State Council's commitment to transparency and its mission to build enduring bridges of communication with the community, particularly with the youth. "The officials were so welcoming and open with their answers," said Suhaib Al Ghaithi, Commercial Law Student and President of the Commercial Law Students’ Club, adding, "It really demystified the process for me and made me feel like I could be a part of this future."
The engagement highlighted the vital role that such interactions play in not only educating but also empowering young Omanis, encouraging them to become active and informed citizens. The visit was a profound testament to the power of collaboration between the academic and governmental sectors, planting the seeds for a new generation of leaders who are both knowledgeable and deeply committed to the prosperity of their nation.
