Muscat, 22 June 2026 – In coordination with the Ministry of Education, the first phase of the Serdal Leadership and Skills Development Programme officially begins today as part of a national initiative funded by OQ, the global energy investment group, and delivered in partnership with Oman Sail. Bringing together students from across Oman, the programme is designed to equip participants with the leadership and life skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing world and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future through practical challenges, applied learning experiences and personal development activities that promote self-confidence, responsibility and independence.
Serdal reflects OQ’s commitment to investing in human capital and developing national capabilities by providing high-quality learning opportunities that help build character and strengthen communication, teamwork, leadership and decision-making skills, in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Covering multiple governorates across the nation, the programme targets specific school grades to ensure maximum impact. A total of 188 students will participate in a comprehensive learning journey that combines practical learning, marine-based activities and educational adventures, helping participants build character, strengthen initiative and responsibility, and discover their potential in new and engaging environments.
Commenting on this programme, Jasim Hassan Al Ajmi, VP Sustainability & Communication at OQ “Investing in youth development is a core pillar of our social investment strategy. We are excited to see the impact this programme will have on students across the various governorates, both now and in the future. Together with Oman Sail and the Ministry of Education we are committed to supporting Oman’s long-term national development goals and supporting the youth of Oman to fulfil their potential.”
Sheikh Yaqoub bin Saif Al Shuheimi, Director General of the Career Guidance and Student Counselling Centre at the Ministry of Education, said, “The Ministry of Education is delighted to collaborate with OQ to bring the Serdal Programme to life. This initiative represents a vital step in our mission to unlock potential, and by moving beyond traditional classroom boundaries, this programme offers students a dynamic learning environment to build character and resilience. By integrating leadership training into the academic journey, we are ensuring that Omani youth are well-prepared to contribute to the nation’s future as confident, skilled, and responsible citizens.”
Khamis Al Anbouri, Acting Commercial Director at Oman Sail, said, “At Oman Sail, we believe that the sea is a powerful teacher. Through Serdal, we are proud to partner with OQ and the Ministry of Education to provide a platform where students can discover their potential and develop the leadership qualities required for the future and strengthen our commitment to the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.”
The Serdal Leadership and Skills Development Programme builds on OQ’s wider community investment efforts and represents an effective national model for public-private collaboration in developing future talent. By combining authentic Omani values with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, the programme helps prepare capable young Omanis who can adapt to future challenges and contribute to the sustainable development of Oman.