Alyahmadi , Hamad H (2007) The development and expansion of higher education in Oman : planning for the future. PhD thesis, University of Sheffield.
Abstract
In common with many other developing countries, particularly in the Gulf region, Oman has been experienced on educational renaissance over the last 35 years. This renaissance put substantial pressure on HE, and created considerable disquiet within Omani society, as the majority of young secondary school graduates are unable to be accommodated in the one state university and other colleges. Consequently, the country's mission to 'Omanise' its workforce (and thereby rely less on expatriates and migrant workers) is far from being achieved, particularly in the private sector agencies. Questions naturally follow regarding the adequacy of state planning for HE and the implementation of the vision whereby Oman's younger generations can fully contribute towards Omani life in all respects - economically, socially, and culturally. This study takes the HE context in Oman as its focus, considering issues relating to its development and expansion, and concentrating specifically on the provision for, and progression of, Secondary School Graduates (SSGs) to HE. In this regard, the study aims also to investigate different demands for HE, socially and economically, and to identify the vision, aims, policies, and implementation plans of HE as currently articulated in the country's published Development Plans, with particular reference to the Vision of Oman Economy 'Oman 2020', and the 5th and 6th FYDPs. It explores the funding, administration and management of HEIs, and considers in detail, the contribution made to the country's HE sector by private institutions. Using two research techniques of documentary analysis and an exclusive interview with fifty key figures, senior and influential personnel and stakeholders in Omani HE, HRD organisations, industry and society at large, the study reveals the challenges currently facing HE system. It demonstrates the limitations of HE provision and the serious mismatch between the nature and level of the system's outputs, and the country's development requirements. It proceeds to offer suggestions regarding the need to enhance the future vision and plans of HE, the state role in the administration and financing of HE and the benefits that might accrue from public-private partnership and cost-sharing measures. It considers, in particular, re-structuring the sector in order to make more effective use of resources, remedy the current various difficulties and to promote the future plans and provisions this extremely vital aspect of the nation's development.
Metadata
Awarding institution: | University of Sheffield |
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Academic Units: | The University of Sheffield > Faculty of Social Sciences (Sheffield) > School of Education (Sheffield) |
Identification Number/EthosID: | uk.bl.ethos.579796 |
Depositing User: | EThOS Import Sheffield |
Date Deposited: | 18 Jan 2017 11:43 |
Last Modified: | 18 Jan 2017 11:43 |
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