Muscat – Oman will join the Arab world on Thursday in marking Arab Literacy Day, observed annually on January 8, under the theme ‘Adult Learning and Lifelong Learning as a Pillar of Social Justice and a Driver of Sustainable Development’.
The occasion reflects Oman’s renewed commitment to education and knowledge, as the Ministry of Education advances a broader approach to literacy. The focus has moved beyond basic reading and writing to equipping learners with skills required in the digital era, in line with Oman Vision 2040, which places people and society at the core of national development.
According to data from the Literacy Programme for the 2025–2026 academic year, national education policies have succeeded in reaching targeted groups across all governorates. A total of 192 literacy classes have been established in urban areas as well as mountainous and desert communities, ensuring equitable access to education.
Nearly 2,032 male and female learners have enrolled in literacy classes and centres nationwide, reflecting growing awareness of the importance of lifelong learning. North Batinah recorded the highest enrolment, with 442 learners, while Musandam registered 58 learners. Officials said the figure is encouraging given the governorate’s population distribution and indicates that Musandam is nearing declaration as free from basic alphabetical illiteracy.
As part of its development plans, the Ministry of Education is preparing to implement the ‘Digital Literacy for Grade Three’ project in 2026. The initiative represents a shift in teaching methods through digital transformation, moving from traditional tools to screens and interactive boards. It aims to enable learners to access e-government services, use smart learning tools and engage with simplified applications and interactive educational platforms suited to adult learners.
The programme also focuses on addressing technology-related anxiety, while promoting digital ethics, personal data protection and safe online information practices, contributing to enhanced community digital security.
Recognising the role of teachers in achieving education goals, the ministry has launched a specialised programme to develop the skills of educators working with adult learners. The initiative encourages innovation and effective use of teaching tools to ensure meaningful learning outcomes.
The Ministry of Education has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining levels of illiteracy while expanding literacy programmes to promote citizenship values, national identity, sustainability and public health awareness as part of adult education curricula.
