Friday 17 / May / 2024
Muscat: The National Museum, represented by the Learning Centre, on Sunday hosted the inauguration ceremony of the documentary titled “More than a Teacher: A Story from Oman”.
The event was held under the auspices of Dr. Madiha Ahmed Al Shaibani, Minister of Education.
Aisha Sahar Wahid Al Kharousi, the film’s producer, said that “the film celebrates Oman’s rich history, compelling present, and promising future.
It spotlights the story of Don Yager as an example among countless stories that embody the scope of the bilateral relations between Oman and the United States and, by extension, the rest of the world.
It highlights the wise vision of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said in prioritising the education sector since the early days of the renaissance, preparing leadership cadres in various sectors.
It subtly highlights, too, the investment opportunities abundant in Oman in its renewed renaissance under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.”
Nayef bin Ali Al Abri, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority (one of the scholarship’s graduates), said “The inauguration of the documentary that tells the story of a man who believed in this land and came from the eighties and then became attached to this good land. The film is a tool to promote the Sultanate of Oman and its cultural and tourism heritage and treasures”.
American professor Don Yager said that the documentary represents the fraternal relationship that unites him with the graduates of the program.
He added that it also evokes memories and important meetings that formed the depth of the bonds between them, and shows the leadership positions that the students have reached, contributing to developing the wheel of development in the country.
He explained that the film tells the stories of some Americans residing in the Sultanate of Oman and the special pride they hold for Oman in their hearts.
The film also sheds light on the modern renaissance of Oman and the successful initiatives and achievements related to the history and culture of Oman, the arts, tourism and the environment, which were achieved, thanks to the wise vision of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, which made the Sultanate of Oman a role model in development and international cooperation.
The documentary presents a distinctive cinematic experience, taking the audience on a sentimental and impactful journey that unveils significant aspects of the marvelous beauty of the Sultanate of Oman. It highlights its touristic charm, unique cultural diversity, and rich history.
Additionally, the documentary sheds light on the journey of the American educator “Don Yager” after being commissioned by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said to manage the scholarship program of the Sultan’s School from 1980 until his retirement in 2005.
Seminal encounters
The documentary explores the enduring relationship between programme graduates and Don Yager, recalling memories and seminal encounters that deepened the bonds between them. It also showcases the students’ leadership positions, actively contributing to the development of the country.
Further, the documentary narrates stories of some Americans residing in Oman, expressing their special fondness for the country.
It also highlights modern Oman’s renaissance and successful initiatives and achievements related to its history, culture, arts, tourism, and environment.
These achievements are credited to the wise vision of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said making Oman a role model in development and international cooperation.
The documentary reflects the broad creative interaction initiated by various stakeholders, all Omanis from production to direction, editing, and music.
The concept of “A Story from Oman” serves as an excellent and effective creative umbrella to showcase impactful and inspiring stories of individuals influenced by Oman, whether tourists or residents.
It provides an opportunity for young and creative filmmakers to explore their talents, express their artistic voices, and simultaneously promote their beloved country.
This step marks the opening of the “A Story from Oman” series, paving the way for the Omani film industry to showcase authenticity and innovative modernity to the world.
The documentary will be screened at the Sultan’s School and later in the United States, in collaboration with educational institutes, cultural organizations and entities in the film industry and various creative circles, to raise awareness about the Sultanate of Oman across different states.
The even was attended by dignitaries, academics, students, and individuals in the cultural and creative space. -ONA
