New Evaluation System to Boost Oman's Education

Oman’s education system is set for a major transformation with the upcoming launch of the National System for School Evaluation, scheduled for December 2. This significant development, organized by the Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education (OAAAQA), marks a vital step towards enhancing the quality of education across the sultanate. The launch event will take place in Muscat, under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham bin Tarik al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth.

A New Era for Education Quality in Oman

The new system, created under Royal Decree No. 9/2021, aims to elevate the performance of both public and private schools in Oman. The initiative seeks to ensure that educational institutions meet national and international standards, making Oman a competitive leader in the global education arena.

Dr. Jokha Abdullah al Shukaili, CEO of OAAAQA, emphasized the importance of the evaluation system as a core component of the authority’s strategy to improve Oman’s educational sector. "It is designed to elevate school performance to meet the evolving needs of education and the labor market," said Dr. al Shukaili. "The system will ensure alignment with national objectives through a rigorous review process and detailed reporting."

Tailored for Omani Schools: A Comprehensive Evaluation Process

The National System for School Evaluation has been carefully developed by the Centre for School Education Quality Assurance. Extensive testing and review were conducted to adapt the system to the unique requirements of Omani schools. The evaluation process is designed to guide schools through structured expert-led on-site assessments and provide comprehensive reports that highlight both strengths and areas for improvement.

The system’s transparent approach includes publishing the results in official newspapers and on social media platforms. Dr. al Shukaili highlighted that all rulings against schools will be made public, reinforcing the system's commitment to transparency.

A Catalyst for Continuous Improvement

Dr. Thuraya bint Saif al Hosni, Director General of the Centre for School Education Quality Assurance, stated that the new evaluation system will act as a catalyst for improving education standards across the country. Supervisory bodies will offer technical and operational support to schools to help them implement continuous improvements. Schools will then use these evaluations to develop strategic improvement plans in line with the School Evaluation Framework.

This system is designed not only to assess school performance but also to foster collaboration between OAAAQA, the Ministry of Education, and other key stakeholders. By working together, these entities will pursue a unified approach to raising educational standards throughout Oman.

Aligning with Oman Vision 2040

The launch of the National System for School Evaluation is part of Oman’s broader commitment to its Vision 2040, which prioritizes education, research, and capacity building. Vision 2040 aims to position Oman as a regional leader in education by fostering an environment that supports the holistic development of students.

Through this initiative, Oman aspires to build an education system that meets global standards and reflects the aspirations of its citizens and communities. The National System for School Evaluation is a significant step towards realizing that goal, ensuring that Oman’s education system continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of future generations.