Media

DUQM: The Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) has recorded growth in the number of students enrolled in general and basic education, coinciding with an increase in investments in the area. This growth is also due to many Omani and foreign families relocating to Duqm, encouraged by the availability of various services and facilities that promote a stable living environment.

Over the past five years, the SEZAD has seen an increase in the number of students attending both public and private schools. In the 2023/2024 academic year, student enrollment rose to over 1,740, compared to 1,181 in the 2018/2019 academic year, marking a growth of 47.3 per cent. This growth coincided with the opening of A’Soud Global School (AGS) in 2021.

Ahmed Ali Akaak, Acting CEO of the SEZAD, said that the Zone is poised for further investments in the education sector, reflecting the growth of projects being implemented in the area.

He added in a press statement, "The Zone's administration is working to attract more investments that support the stability of both local and foreign workforces and is implementing numerous projects that make Duqm a preferred destination for living, residing, and working."

There are a total of 8 schools in Duqm, including 6 public schools and 2 private schools, AGS and the Indian School Duqm. In addition, there are several kindergartens that cater to students in the pre-school phase.

Ms. Amandine Guofart, Principal at AGS, said that the school has experienced significant growth since its establishment. It began as an elementary school only but now offers education from kindergarten through to Grade 12, following the globally recognized British curriculum accredited by the University of Cambridge.

She noted that AGS focuses on developing students and preparing them to become future leaders. In this context, she highlighted that the school recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Middle East College to foster collaboration between students and teachers, allowing them access to shared teaching facilities to enhance their experience and overall development. She praised the support the school receives from the SEZAD's administration, saying, "The development of Duqm and the exceptional support from the Zone's team over the past few years have contributed to this significant growth in a short period."

The total number of students enrolled at AGS last academic year was over 200, representing more than 22 different nationalities. In comparison, the Indian School had a total of 52 students from 5 different nationalities.

The Indian School Duqm is the newest addition to the network of Indian schools in the Sultanate of Oman. It was established to meet the growing demand from Indian and other expatriate families residing in Duqm. The school aims to provide a modern and comprehensive educational environment from kindergarten through primary school, with plans to expand in the future to include higher educational levels. It follows the curriculum approved by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) in India, ensuring high-quality education for its students.