Muscat: Amid rapid advancements in technology and media, the Ministry of Information has launched 'Ayn for Kids', a new interface on the Ayn platform designed to provide child-friendly content that supports national identity and values, aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
According to Oman News Agency, the initiative presents a strategic shift in Oman's media landscape, offering a comprehensive digital environment that caters to the educational, cultural, and social needs of children. The platform aims to enrich children's knowledge and personal development while maintaining a strong connection to Omani culture and values.
Noura Mohammed Al Zadjali, a parent, highlighted the importance of the platform in connecting generations to the authentic values of Omani society. She emphasized the need for children to engage with valuable content in a world where technology is dominant. The interface offers a secure space for children to explore and learn, replacing traditional TV channels with more diverse and flexible content options.
Dr. Maamar Ali Al Toubi, an AI specialist, noted that the launch represents a milestone in transitioning Omani children from passive consumers to active participants in a culturally tailored digital environment. He stressed the importance of media institutions reformulating their tools to align with new consumption patterns, ensuring that knowledge is framed in a contemporary language.
Dr. Ahoud Said Al Balushi from the State Council praised the platform for providing a safe online environment while bridging the digital gap in Arabic child-oriented content. The initiative also aims to nurture creativity in child content creators, fostering future media talents and enhancing Oman's media landscape.
Abdullah Hamad Al Harthy, Head of the Media, Tourism, and Culture Committee at the Shura Council, emphasized the platform's role in fostering a generation equipped with knowledge and values. He called for collaboration with child literature specialists to develop captivating scientific content aligned with Omani nature and traditions.
Dr. Wafa Salim Al Shamsi, a child literature specialist, highlighted the platform's potential to build a safe, rich digital knowledge environment for Omani children. She stressed the importance of delivering content that promotes critical thinking and empathy through engaging stories and interactive texts.
The Ayn for Kids interface offers multifaceted content, including educational, entertaining, and cultural programs for ages 4-18. It features a visually appealing, child-friendly interface, prioritizing accessibility for children with hearing or visual impairments. The platform hosts over 65,000 visual and audio materials, with 8,000 specifically dedicated to children, marking a significant step toward a secure, identity-anchored digital future for Oman's youngest generation.