Sultanate's development march is primed to achieve quicker results in terms of economic and social progress with constant review, enhancement and establishment of new public entities. That the welfare of the people and continuous progress of the country is uppermost in the mind of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said is reflected once again in the seven Royal Decrees issued by him.

Among the seven are setting up of a Supreme Council for Planning, establishing a National Centre for Statistics and Data and a Public Authority for Civil Aviation. Over the past four decades the nation has progressed economically and socially by leaps and bounds as a result of the vision of His Majesty the Sultan. That the Sultanate is well on the road to achieving greater economic security as a result of its development march was also emphasised by His Majesty the Sultan during an address to the Council of Ministers at Bait Al Barakah Al Amer in January this year. After a review of local, regional and international developments His Majesty the Sultan had expressed satisfaction with efforts being made towards improving the quality of life of citizens, development of infrastructure and work being done in various economic sectors.

We are aware of the fact that as the country climbs up the chart of highly developed nations, there will be an ever-increasing need to assess the gains made thus far and, consequently, the need to innovate and incorporate new strategies. Staying a step ahead of the times is being wise and practical, as developed and developing societies know only too well. We in the Sultanate are equally aware of this as the Royal Decrees prove. Over the years such initiatives from His Majesty the Sultan have led to many benefits; Royal orders and directives have inspired citizens, provided them with quality education, social security, incentives and inspiration to be nation-builders.

The State Budget 2012 was tailored to meet the country’s growing needs, education being a crucial part of the development process. Education is a high priority in the Sultanate as it constitutes the base for development of human resources which are vital for progress. There are various initiatives geared for enhancing educational facilities, including grant of scholarships, and a special committee tasked to expedite the award of scholarships for students who fulfilled the required criteria. Such professional study courses prepare students for the country’s labour market.

His Majesty the Sultan believes that the youth are the future of the nation, and as they are nation-builders their absolute involvement in the development march is necessary for social stability. As Oman consolidates its achievements with government entities learning from past and present experiences and shaping their future plans and strategies accordingly, a visionary approach to economic, social and cultural progress has always guided the country in the proper direction. Such a direction, as envisioned by His Majesty the Sultan, will lead the country to greater progress and prosperity; it will ensure economic and social security of Omani society and also show future generations the right road to success.