Education, tourism ties hold potential for Oman, India

@lakshmioman –

There are many ways before Oman and India to pursue collaboration in education and tourism sectors, said outgoing Indian Ambassador, Munu Mahawar on Tuesday as he as he wrapped up his three-year tenure in the Sultanate of Oman.

Oman and India have an exceptional relation going back thousands of years, said the ambassador adding, “So these three years have been very meaningful to have served as an ambassador to Oman. The relationship has evolved over the years into a vibrant multifaceted strategic partnership under the able leadership of late Sultan Qaboos bin Said and the relationship continues to grow and develop under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, as well as the leadership in India.”

“Definitely there are many areas where we can work together in all the priority areas identified by Oman in the vision 2040, likewise Oman can be a strong partner as India moves toward being self-reliant. Education and skill development is a priority area for Oman and this is one area we have capabilities and Human Resources is an important area. We would also like to see more Omani students studying in Indian universities and have more collaborations between Omani and Indian Universities,” said the ambassador.

He pointed out the significance of the large number of Indian school students studying in Oman.

“They can pursue their higher education in Oman. We have been working with the Ministry of Education to have higher interaction between Omani schools and Indian schools in the field of education. The schools have launched innovative programs such as career programs, science, technology and innovation. It would be great if Omani school students can also take advantage of these programs,” pointed out Mahawar.

While people know about Oman, not many are familiar with what Oman can offer and its true potential, said the ambassador.

“Oman has so much diversity and natural beauty and is truly amazing. In the first and a half years (pre-Covid) I had a tremendous opportunity to travel extensively in Oman and now since last month. I was able to visit all the major population centers and remote areas as well and interacted with people. Now that Covid situation has subsided, there are tremendous opportunities. We are happy the traveling process has eased between the two countries. I would like to see more youth from Oman to visit India and experience how much warmth and affection there is for Oman in India. Our cultural diversity and natural affinity should enable greater people to people exchanges between the countries,” he explained.

According to the ambassador, the three years have been extremely satisfying because, “We were able to make complete progress in many areas of bilateral engagement and we were also able to work closely together during challenging times with Covid situation. Our countries worked together, helped each other in the hours of need and we will continue to do that. I would like to thank the Government of Oman and all the Omani authorities and friends for their tremendous support they have given to the Government of India and me personally wherever I went and whomsoever I met. So I am going with fond memories after the tenure.”