Oman expands health-promoting universities initiative
Program integrates wellbeing into higher education, moving toward WHO-backed regional accreditation for participating institutions
MUSCAT, Oman (MNTV) — Oman’s Health-Promoting Universities initiative is gaining momentum as part of a national strategy to embed health and well-being into higher education environments, officials said.
The program, reported Oman News, seeks to transform universities into safe and supportive spaces that enhance both academic performance and personal development.
Dr. Maryam Belarab Al Nabhani, Director General of Private Universities and Colleges, told Oman News Agency that the initiative was launched in the 2023/2024 academic year with three national universities and expanded significantly in 2024/2025 to include eight additional public and private institutions.
She said the expansion reflects growing awareness of the importance of integrating health into university policies, governance, and student activities.
Al Nabhani said the initiative is now moving from a national assessment phase to a regional evaluation stage in cooperation with the World Health Organization, paving the way for regional accreditation of several Omani universities as health-promoting institutions.
She described this step as a national achievement that strengthens Oman’s international profile in education and public health.
The Health-Promoting Universities framework includes standards covering supportive institutional policies, safe campus environments, mental health services, physical activity, healthy nutrition, and the prevention of high-risk behaviors.
Al Nabhani said these measures aim to create a sustainable educational environment that improves student well-being and institutional performance.
She praised participating universities for translating the initiative into lasting health programs, noting its role in improving physical and mental health, reducing harmful behaviors, raising health awareness, and supporting academic achievement.
Al Nabhani also highlighted the National Forum for the Health-Promoting Universities Initiative, hosted this month by the University of A’Sharqiyah, which brought together higher education institutions, health authorities, and international partners to share expertise and align efforts.
The forum was organized jointly by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization, reflecting cross-sector cooperation to ensure that educational quality remains closely linked to health and quality of life on campus.
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