As part of efforts to increase the Middle East’s exposure to sports, table tennis will soon become a part of the curriculum for Oman schools.
The Oman Ministry of Education and the Oman Table Tennis Association signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to that effect.
The general manager of the Directorate General for Curriculum Development, Dr. Yahya bin Khamis al Harthy, and president of the Oman Table Tennis Association, Abdullah bin Mohammed Bamakhalif, signed the MoU in the presence of Dr. Abdullah bin Khamis Ambusaidi, the undersecretary of the Ministry of Education.
A positive effect on education
Dr. Al Harthy stated:
“The memorandum of understanding aims to achieve the comprehensive development of the student’s personality and contribute to Omani sports at all levels, including competitiveness.”
The mission is to enhance students’ attitudes towards physical activity, not just in table tennis but also sports in general.
It will cater to all ages and diversify curriculum programs and activities to align with the characteristics of different age grades.
Bamakhalif was also optimistic about the vast opportunities that a table tennis festival would offer students.
Besides being a beneficial skill for students, he mentioned that learning table tennis would also serve to promote interest in the sport among the community.
Bamakhalif also added that it is hoped table tennis will have a new generation of fans and that table tennis would become a new favorite sport, played by students and adults alike.
“Our target for the Future Champions project is to discover potential faces that add value to national teams, eventually gaining top positions in tournaments.”
More developments with the project are expected as the country will host the WTT Contender Muscat, which will be held between February 27 and March 5.
The plan, termed the ‘Future Champions’ project, will provide 282 schools with tennis equipment such as rackets, balls and tables.
It also includes adequate training and workshops for the school teachers.
