Monday 16 / February / 2026
Muscat: Oman Sail and the Ministry of Social Development have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to empower Omani youth through a specialised life skills training programme which will lean on the lessons of sailing to inspire personal skills development, communication and teamwork. The agreement was signed by Dr. Khamis Salim Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, and Sayyida Maani Abdullah Al Busaidi, Director General of Family Development at the Ministry of Social Development.
This partnership underscores a shared commitment to supporting youth by providing them with the tools necessary to build a prosperous future. The training programme will engage 16 students, aged 10 to 16, who have been selected by the Ministry of Social Development.
To ensure personalised attention and impactful learning, the participants will be divided into two separate batches of eight students each, with a curriculum is specifically designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
Over the course of three days for each group, the curriculum will focus on four core pillars: personal skills development, communication, teamwork, and an introductory ‘Try Sailing’ experience. This structured approach allows the students to master collaborative tasks on land before applying those same principles of coordination and leadership on the water, ensuring that the youth are better prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Dr. Khamis Salim Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, said, “The primary objective of this initiative is to equip Omani youth with essential life skills that foster self-confidence and creativity. By integrating maritime activities with personal development workshops, the programme aims to expand the horizons of the participants and provide them with a supportive environment to explore their potential. Oman Sail is proud to play such an important role in shaping the next generation of resilient and capable Omani citizens.”
Sayyida Maani Abdullah Al Busaidi, Director General of Family Development at the Ministry of Social Development, emphasised the importance of such community partnerships in achieving social goals. She said, “This agreement represents a vital step in our mission to provide comprehensive support and empowerment for children in our care. By teaching the youth how to communicate effectively and work as a team, we are giving them the keys to unlock a brighter, more independent future. The Ministry looks forward to working with our trusted partner Oman Sail and witnessing the positive impact this unique training will have on the students' personal growth and outlook.”
Oman Sail has always believed in the power of the sea to transform lives and instil a sense of discipline and ambition. The partnership with the Ministry of Social Development will expand the ability to reach young people and share the benefits of these experiences with a new group of individuals, helping them to discover their inner strengths and build a foundation of confidence that will serve them throughout their lives.
