Muscat, 17 September 2026: Reinforcing its commitment to advancing youth development and contributing to Oman’s human capital priorities, Sohar International is supporting Aspire Oman 2026, a three weeks residential summer development programme developed by Takatuf Oman to equip Omani youth with future-ready skills aligned with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. As part of its support, the Bank is sponsoring the participation of five Omani students in the programme, enabling them to benefit from an intensive learning experience focused on leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, digital technology and critical thinking.
Mahira Saleh Al Raisi, Chief People Officer at Sohar International, stated, “Investing in young people is about more than preparing them for their first step into the workforce; it is about helping them recognize their potential, build confidence and develop the mindset to navigate an increasingly dynamic world. Programmes such as Aspire Oman create an environment where young Omanis can learn beyond the classroom, challenge their perspectives and discover new ways of thinking and working. At Sohar International, we are proud to support opportunities that nurture these qualities and contribute to a strong pipeline of Omani talent capable of bringing fresh perspectives, creativity and purpose to the workplace and to the wider community.”
Commenting on the initiative, Badr al Jahwari, Head, Sohar International Academy at Sohar International said, “The strength of any nation’s future is shaped by the capabilities, ambition and adaptability of its next generation. At Sohar International, we see our role in supporting youth development as part of a broader responsibility to contribute to the foundations of a knowledge-driven and competitive economy. Our support for Aspire Oman 2026 reflects this long-term perspective, creating pathways for young Omanis to engage with new ideas, broaden their horizons and develop the confidence to contribute meaningfully to Oman’s evolving economic and social landscape. Through initiatives of this nature, we remain committed to supporting the national priorities of Oman Vision 2040 and the development of a generation equipped to shape the future.”
Delivered by Takatuf Oman, Aspire Oman 2026 brings together students from Grade 10, aged 16, from across Oman. The programme combines academic development with experiential learning, providing participants with opportunities to strengthen their cognitive, social and leadership capabilities while gaining exposure to emerging areas including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital technologies.
Through the programme, participants will undertake an intensive learning journey designed to foster problem-solving, communication, collaboration and entrepreneurial thinking, while encouraging them to explore emerging technologies and develop a forward-looking mindset. The programme also incorporates assessments, participant feedback and post-programme reporting to measure its impact and identify areas for continued development.
Sohar International’s support for Aspire Oman 2026 forms part of its broader commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Omani youth and contributing to initiatives that support the development of a skilled, innovative and future-ready generation. By enabling young people to access high-quality learning and experiential opportunities, the Bank continues to support the development of capabilities that can contribute to Oman’s long-term social and economic progress.
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About Sohar International:
Sohar International is guided by a clear vision to become a world-leading Omani service company that helps customers, communities, and people prosper and grow. With a purpose to help people ‘win’ by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, the bank offers innovative solutions across Commercial and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, Islamic Banking, and more. Operating with a strong digital-first approach and an expanding regional footprint—including presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Sohar International is committed to driving value through strategic partnerships and a dynamic customer experience. Learn more at www.SIB.om