UNESCO Officially Adopts Sultan Haitham Cultural Heritage Prize

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization adopted a major prize today. UNESCO officially launched the UNESCO-Sultan Haitham Prize in Paris.

This exciting award safeguards intangible cultural heritage worldwide. The global community deeply appreciates the leading cultural role of Oman.

Joint National Efforts

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth led this joint initiative. They cooperated closely with the Ministry of Education to develop it.

The Omani National Commission for Education and Culture also participated. They coordinated these massive efforts with the Permanent Omani Delegation to UNESCO.

Sultan Haitham and Cultural Leadership

Oman ratified the 2003 Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention very early. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq drove this cultural vision starting in 2002.

His Majesty assumed the Ministry of Heritage and Culture back then. He sparked a massive flourishing of the Omani cultural movement.

The Sultan helped establish the National Museum and the National Archives. He also supported libraries and cultural centers across the entire Sultanate.

Global Award Objectives

The new prize targets organizations, individuals, and universities worldwide. These groups must actively preserve and transmit living cultural heritage.

The award promotes crucial social cohesion, global peace, and sustainable development. It raises deep international awareness about protecting our shared human identity.

This initiative also actively supports the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It champions quality education and builds strong, peaceful global institutions.

Omani Ministerial Support

Minister of Culture Saud bin Hilal Al Busaidi praised the new award. He stated it adds massive qualitative value to the UNESCO system.

The Minister emphasized how the prize builds bridges between different peoples. He confirmed the strong, ongoing commitment of Oman to international cultural cooperation.

Award Categories and Participation

The prize covers several diverse aspects of intangible cultural heritage. It honors oral traditions, performing arts, and traditional social practices.

The award also recognizes knowledge regarding nature and traditional crafting skills. Participating institutions must show significant contributions to transmitting this vital heritage.

UNESCO will prepare the final technical conditions alongside Omani cultural ministries.

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