The 23rd edition of the Oman International ELT Conference was opened this morning, held under the theme “Future-Ready English Language Education: Integrating Language Learning with Essential Life Skills.” The conference is hosted at the university’s Conference Hall, with the participation of over 400 academics and educators from Oman and a number of countries.
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Professor Abdullah bin Khamis Ambusaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education for Education, with the attendance of His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, the Vice-Chancellor.
In her opening address, Dr. Zahra bint Ali Al-Lawati, Director of the Centre for Preparatory Studies, stressed that English language education must move beyond mere linguistic proficiency. She explained that the Centre’s mission extends beyond enhancing students’ communication skills to also include nurturing critical thinking, effective collaboration, and adaptability in an ever-changing world.
Dr. Al-Lawati also highlighted this year’s interdisciplinary focus, with sessions featuring experts in mathematics and IT from the Centre and other institutions. These contributors aim to explore how modern technologies, problem-solving strategies, and critical thinking can be meaningfully integrated into English language teaching practices.
In his remarks, Khalfan bin Saif Al-Kamyani, Head of the Conference Organising Committee, emphasised that language is not just a tool for communication but a bridge to knowledge, cultural exchange, and professional opportunity. He underscored the teacher’s role in equipping students with the competencies needed to navigate a connected and fast-evolving world with confidence and agility.
This year’s programme features 106 speakers delivering 71 papers and research posters, along with 21 hands-on workshops and two keynote lectures. Among the highlights is the opening keynote by Professor Linda Bradley from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, who spoke on learner-centred education and assessment as key drivers for life skills development in higher education.