Student profile: I completed a Diploma in Physiotherapy in Oman, a Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation in the UK. At the moment I am doing a PhD at Curtin. In 2 years and 10 months, I have presented three papers in different countries: Abu Dhabi, UAE, Glasgow, Scotland and most recently in Sydney, Australia. I have had 19 years of experience working at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital as head of Department, working in musculoskeletal and women's health.

Name of Award Received: Australia Physiotherapy Association (APA), Continence and Women's Health Group

Description of Award: Best Paper and Presenter
 

Student: Hood Khalfan AL Brashdi
University: The University of Waikato (New Zealand)
Course: Software Engineering

Student profile:

I have graduated from the Royal Guard of Oman Technical College in 2005 holding a BTEC Diploma. Following that, it was an honor to be granted a full scholarship by the Ministry of Higher Education to study my undergraduate course aboard. I am currently pursuing a degree in Software Engineering at the University of Waikato.

From my own experience, I believe that setting out goals is the road to the fulfillment of one’s dreams. A person should strive to achieve his goals, by both fueling his motivations by the inspirations of his ambition, and steering his way by the lights of his faith. My ambition is escalate in the ranks of knowledge, and contribute to development of my country. 

 

The OSSNZ is delighted to announce that it has launched a new website at www.nzom.net

The Consulate General congratulates the members of the society for their great efforts in creating their window to the world, it is a great achievement! And we encourage everyone to visit.
 

The Brisbane Street Mall in Launceston City was filled with exciting tastes and sounds of Oman which attracted great interest and enthusiasm from the local population.

The exhibition looked very attractive with a number of tables covered with white table cloths and decorated with red and green satin runners. The exhibition included different sections including handicrafts, costumes, hospitality and Tourism. In addition, the exhibition included other activities such as henna designs which were applied by Omani Girls. Live Arabic and Khleeji Music was also performed with traditional dances such as Razha, Bar’a and A’azi.

The locals showed much interest in the exhibition, and many positive comments were heard. VIP visitors attended the exhibition included the Hon. Don Wing MLC, the Mayor of Launceston Albert van Zetten, Prof Malek Pourzanjani (AMC Principal and Pro-Vice Chacellor), John Foster (CEO - AMC Search), the president of the Hobart Saudi Association and others. The Consul-General Mr Hamad Al-Hajri was there throughout the day.

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Student:

Student profile: I completed my undergraduate degree in Education at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman. I worked for more than one year as an English lecturer in a private college and then I got a scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education to do my Masters in Australia. I love both English language and teaching, and I have enjoyed my course here. I learned a lot about teaching methodology and testing students as well as issues that arise from teaching English in different countries and the cultural and political implications of it.

 Omani students that are interested in attending the match please contact the Student Societies in your State for all relevant details including free tickets.

Student profile: I graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from Sultan Qaboos University in 1994 and after 10 years experience in electronic circuit design I came to Australia. I have been in Australia for two years with my family. We have enjoyed the time and it has been very helpful to bring the family, my children have learnt English and they enjoy the life and new friends.
 

The Discover Oman exhibition is the second event of its kind that the Omani Society in Queensland has organised.

The exhibition was held all day in Queens Street one of the most famous commercial streets of Brisbane, where many Australians and international people visit.

The exhibition showcased the traditions of Oman, which was represented by the traditional handcrafts, silver wears and all were displayed in an Arabian setting. The exhibition also reflected the modern Oman via the visual, portray and written materials that were showed and distributed to the thousands of passer-by’s throughout the day. Added activities for the Discover Oman was the Omani Henna and the live Arabic songs all of which proved to be a great attraction.

Discover Oman was a great success and gave Brisbane a taste of Oman.
 

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Melbourne Graduation Ceremony
Date: 9th May 2009
Location: RMIT University Story Hall

At RMIT's University Story Hall the Oman Student Society of Victoria (OSSV) celebrated the graduation of its 12th batch of students in Melbourne. In addition to the Consul-General Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri the graduation ceremony was honored by the attendance of esteemed guests from the Victorian Parliament, Mr. Steve Herbert MP, Ms Judy Maddigon MP and Mr Khalil Eido MP and consulate staff. The ceremony theme, "Story of Success", was played through various scenes which represented different stages of the OSSV evolution and showed that the society's success is linked to the success of its hard working members. The first scene started with an OSSV meeting where the members are planning an anticipated annual event; and took the audience through its progression. After that, it drew back the curtain on social and academic aspects in the lives of members and concluded with an entertaining play which mirrored a glimpse of the students' activities during the semester. After speeches and a fine dinner 48 graduating students received their awards.

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Brisbane Graduation Ceremony
Date: 16th May 2009
Location: Griffith University Hall

Under the auspices of the Consul General Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri, the Omani Society in Queensland organized the graduation ceremony held on Saturday evening in Brisbane's South Bank. The program started with the recitation of Holy Quraan by Alazhar Al-Zakwani, followed by a speech from H.E, the Consular General in which he congratulated the graduates and praised them for their academic achievements. The acting President of the Society also delivered a speech, in which he thanked all people and institutions that have supported the activities in which the society has managed to organize, encouraging members to participate and further develop the society as much as possible. Poem and songs also featured throughout the function. Finally, H.E. handed over the awards to the 12 graduates and presented certificates of appreciation to the active members of the society.
 

Pictures coming...

Student profile: I’m currently a 4th year podiatry student. I started my university course in 2006 which integrated theory and practical work throughout the four years. The study abroad experience has provided me with a unique opportunity to explore and socialize with different cultures, break the usual academic routines that we got used to at school and it also has helped me learn about myself, boost my confidence and return home with new ideas and perspectives about myself and my own culture. The experience was initially challenging but eventually strengthened my values as I saw my culture through different perceptions.

Awards Received: The Golden Key International Honour Society membership
Description of Award: Golden Key International Honour Society, founded on the 29 November 1977, is an academic honor society which recognizes and encourages scholastic achievement and excellence among college and university students from all academic disciplines. The membership into Golden Key is by invitation only, given to the top 10% of college/university students in a particular discipline.
 

As you will all know already, there have been several cases of H1N1 Swine Influenza throughout Australia particulary in Victoria. We would like to ask you all to take care during this time and ask you all to check the news and your university websites for regular updates. Simple measures such basic hygiene and if possible, avoiding crowded areas where others may be coughing or sneezing will be helpful.

For our students who are here with their families we ask you to exercise high caution as there have been some cases in schools.

Please take care and for further information you can visit the Victorian Government Health Information Website www.health.vic.gov.au

Dear Student

We hope this email finds you in good health. We have been informed by the Learning and Development Centre for Petroleum Development Oman that they are now offering post-graduate scholarships for students. These scholarships are available to all Omani students who wish to embark upon a Master of Science or PhD. Non- PDO scholars are advised to register for the Assessment Centre through the General Applications link: http://tbe.taleo.net/NA1/ats/careers/apply.jsp?org=PDO&cws=2. The guidelines for submitting an application can be found here and should you like to apply or require any further information please do not hesitate to contact the HDL/3 Team who will be able to assist you.

HLD/3 Team Contact Details:

Khalid Al-Rawahi
Team Leader Education Support (HLD/3)
Email: Khalid.Rawahi@pdo.co.om
Tel: +968-24677084

Asad Al-Mahrezi
Educational Adviser (HLD/31)
Email: Asad.AM.Mahrezi@pdo.co.om
Tel: +968- 24672884

General Guidelines for PG Scholarship (doc)
PhD Application Form (doc)
MSc Application Form (doc)
 

The existing email of c.general@oman.org.au will still be used but students and universities are encouraged to send their email correspondence either to accounts@oman.org.au   or academic@oman.org.au 

 
Issues and enquiries relating only to student salaries, student allowances and student financial reimbursements should be sent to accounts@oman.org.au 

 
All other student and academic issues should be sent to academic@oman.org.au  
 

This women's only event was organized to increase the awareness of Arab states and a presentation was given to the wives of current and retired diplomats or serving officers followed by an informal competition. Each country donated small gifts which were presented to those who answered the most correct answers. Each of the countries presented a display of local artifacts and foods with Oman providing coffee, dates and halwa, all proving very popular.

As part of this event, we were asked to provide two national dresses and our students rose to the challenge participating in a fashion parade. The event itself seemed to be appreciated by all who attended and a valuable experience for those who were involved.
 

Date: Wednesday 19th November 2008

Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Location: Parliament of New South Wales, Macquarie St, Sydney

A celebration for the 2008 Omani National Day took place on Wednesday 19th November at the Parliament of New South Wales, Sydney. A large number of VIP’s and guests attended the event and were greeted by His Excellency the Consul-General, Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri. It was the first ever Omani National Day in New South Wales and guests were treated with Omani coffee and sweets served by Omani students in traditional dress. Guests were also able to gain a better understanding of Oman through the students.

As the evening progressed guests were able to experience a taste of Oman by viewing traditional displays, handicrafts, jewelry and a whole array of items that represent the Sultanate of Oman.

The Consul-General addressed the audience alongside the Hon. Barbara Mazzel Perry, MP, Minister for Local Government and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health. The speeches were followed by an enthralling traditional Omani dance that was presented by a number of students that are studying in Australia.

All guests were presented with a sample of the luxurious Amouage perfume on their departure.

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Date: Saturday 7th February 2009

Location: From Glebe Park to Garema Place in the heart of the City

The Consulate's stall gave spectators the chance to taste the traditional Omani sweets and coffee while learning more about Oman through an elaborate display of artefacts, pictures and literature.

The Food and Dance Spectacular is becoming more popular each year and it is a great opportunity for the Australian public to learn about the Sultanate of Oman.

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A lunch organized by the Middle East Times on Wednesday 25th June 2008, was held in honour of Mr. Al-Hajri at Parliament House. The lunch was hosted by the Hon Marie Ficcara MLC and attended by a number of MPs, diplomats and other leading business people. An enjoyable lunch was had by all and many thanks to Mr. Camil Shalala from the Middle East Times who organised the event.   

On Friday 27th June the Consul-General delivered a brief to an interactive boardroom luncheon, which was hosted by the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI). Leading business people with interest in the Gulf attended the luncheon and were given a great opportunity to learn about Oman. A big thanks to the AACCI who organised and facilitated the luncheon. 

The Consulate and a few Omani students who were studying in Canberra assisted with running and organising the Omani tent which served traditional Omani sweets and coffee. The tent also gave the public an opportunity to learn more about Oman with the many displays and brochures that were available.  

Many people travelled from all over Australia to attend the Festival. The day was a great success.   

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Melbourne Graduation Ceremony
Date: Saturday 24th May 2008
Time: 6.30pm - 10.00pm
Location: Storey Hall, RMIT
The Graduation Ceremony for Omani students in Melbourne was held on Saturday 24th May 2008 at Storey Hall, RMIT. The night began with a play by some of the Omani students while dinner was being served. Students performed a traditional Omani dance for guests, which was followed by an Indigenous dance by a father and son act.

Special Dignitary Mr. Syd Giller the National Chairman of the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (AACCI) attend the event and the guest of honour Mrs. Judy Maddigan, Member of Parliament for the Victorian state electorate of Essendon presented her speech which was then followed by the presentation of certificates. Congratulations to graduating students of 2008!

Brisbane Graduation Ceremony
Date: Saturday 31st May, 2008
Location: Brisbane
The Brisbane graduation ceremony was held on Saturday 31st May 2008. The ceremony began with the Omani National Anthem and a documentary about Oman was produced and presented by one of the students, Fatma Al-Maamari. The Consul-General, Mr. Al-Hajri and the President of the Queensland Student's Society, Said Al-Seyabi presented their speeches which were followed by a second documentary created by Hamad Al-Araimi about the Student Society activities in 2007/08. A small group of students performed a play which was followed by the presentation of certificates. The night was enjoyable and a great chance for all Omani students to get together and celebrate. Congratulations to graduating students of 2008!

Perth Graduation Ceremony
Date: Friday 23rd May, 2008
Location: Perth
(The Perth Graduation Ceremony Occured on the 23rd May, 2008. A full report is pending)

A photo gallery of these events will be made available shortly.

Date: Saturday 19th April 2008
Time: 11.00am – 5.00pm
Location: Federation Square, Melbourne 

The Lord Mayor John So opened the event with a welcoming speech, further speeches were delivered by Consul-General, Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri and Mr. Syd Giller the National Chairman of the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (AACCI).

The exhibition was attended by approximately 30,000 onlookers throughout the day. Keeping them entertained were live performances from Omani children, a traditional Omani band and a military band from Oman. There were a number of tents positioned around Federation Square which displayed authentic Omani arts and crafts, traditional clothing, jewelry and sweets which gave people an insight into the rich culture and customs of the Sultanate of Oman.

The Student Exhibition was a great success and provided Melbournians with a taste of Oman culture.

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The Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc (AACCI) Award

The 2008 AACCI award is given to a student who is not only an active member of the Oman Student Society in Victoria but has demonstrated an outstanding contribution to the society. The recipienet would have also encouraged relations between Oman and Australian students, promoted Omani culture and fostered friendship between the two countries and people. The Award will enable the student and a friend to fly to Canberra for two nights and visit Parliament House..

The 2008 AACCI award was presented by the AACCI National Chairman Mr Syd Giller to Mohammed Saif Al-Saidi who has been studying in Australia since 2004 and is an active member of the Omani Student Society of Victoria. Mohammed has been involved in many associations and events while studying in Victoria and is seen to be a valuable member of the Society. Congratulations Mohammed and all the best with future endeavors.

Date: Monday, 19th November, 2007
Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm
Location: Parliament House, Melbourne

The guests were welcomed into Queens Hall at Parliament House by His Excellency the Consul-General, Hamed Al-Hajri. Later in the evening speeches were presented by the Consul-General and the guest of honour, the Hon. Theo Theophanous, the Minister for Industry and Trade, Information and Communication Technology, and Major Projects. Guests were treated to a performance from a small group of Omani children following the speeches.

Guests were able to sample traditional Omani coffee and sweets served by the Omani students. Traditional arts and crafts were on display for guests to view while soaking up the customs and culture of Oman.

The night ended fruitfully and an entertaining evening was had by all.

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