Handicraft trainees prepare to showcase traditional ship models

Sunday, June 14, 2026

Twenty-five young Omanis nearing completion of a nine-month traditional ship model making course in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate have gained both theoretical and hands-on skills under experienced artisans. This first-of-its-kind national program supports Oman Vision 2040 by fostering youth employment, preserving maritime heritage, and promoting creative industries ahead of a final exhibition in June 2026.

A group of 25 young Omanis enrolled in a handicraft training program focused on traditional ship model making in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate is approaching the final stage of its nine-month course. The initiative, known as ‘Al Wustad,’ is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Labour and the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn), led by the Industrial Innovation Academy. The program is being conducted at the Vocational College in Sur.

Since its launch on September 15, 2025, the training has provided participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in crafting detailed models of prominent Omani vessels, including the Ghanjah, Boom, Badan, and Bateel. The course structure involved a three-month theoretical phase followed by a hands-on period supervised by seasoned Omani artisans skilled in traditional shipbuilding and model-making techniques.

The completed ship models are being produced in compliance with the Omani Standards and Specifications Guide approved by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. The project is undertaken under the supervision of Al Sharqiyah South Governorate and receives support from the Oman India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO).

Dr Qais bin Hamad bin Alawi al Shahab, the general coordinator and project representative of the governorate, highlighted that this marks the first time such a program has been implemented nationwide. He emphasized that the initiative aims to develop the participants’ professional skills and prepare them to enter the labor market as independent artisans or entrepreneurs specializing in traditional maritime crafts.

The program aligns with Oman Vision 2040 objectives, particularly in youth empowerment, skills development, preservation of cultural heritage, and promotion of creative industries. It also underscores the importance of utilizing local cultural and economic resources to achieve balanced, sustainable development across regions.

The training is scheduled to conclude on June 25, 2026, with a final exhibition where the participants will display their completed ship models, showcasing the culmination of their acquired craftsmanship and technical expertise.