Oman Showcases UNESCO Associated Schools Experience at Hong Kong Forum

Muscat: Hong Kong: Represented by the Ministry of Education, the Sultanate of Oman is participating in the Professional Development Forum for National Coordinators on Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Education, held in Hong Kong during 4-8 August 2025. The event is jointly organized by the International Centre for UNESCO Associated Schools (ICUA) and the UNESCO Chair at the University of Hong Kong. According to Oman News Agency, the forum aims to empower educators to integrate intangible cultural heritage into curricula, develop innovative teaching methods, and inspire teachers and youth to become active contributors to cultural heritage preservation and global harmony. Yasriya Sulaiman Al Harthy, Director of the UNESCO Associated Schools, Youth Programs, and Clubs Department at the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science-and a member of the ICUA Governing Council-highlighted Oman's experience within the UNESCO Associated Schools Network. She emphasized cultural exchange as a bridge f or mutual understanding and peacebuilding. She also discussed successful national programs in Oman, including the Cross-Continental Intangible Cultural Heritage Project, implemented in collaboration with Croatia and Denmark. This initiative fosters students' intercultural communication skills, reinforces national identity and pride, and prepares them to represent Oman at regional and international forums. The International Centre for UNESCO Associated Schools (ICUA) in China serves as an educational hub supporting the global network of UNESCO-associated schools. It promotes international cooperation and innovation through knowledge production, capacity-building, technical support, and information exchange. The center contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 by empowering students, teachers, and communities to shape a future of peace and sustainability through capacity development, youth engagement, research, and international collaboration.