MUSCAT, 23 June 2004 — Schools are closing for the summer break, marking an end to the hard work of our children in pursuit of the best results. For nearly three months, they will be at leisure, and face the devil called idleness. How can this long vacation be utilized in a manner that brings benefits to our sons and protects them from the dangers of idleness?
How can they avoid boredom and straying off the right path? There are many organizations, governmental and non-governmental, that could help the students channel their energy and enthusiasm into positive fields so that they benefit themselves and society.
First, there is the General Organization for Youth, Sports and Cultural Activities here. This authority has a huge responsibility by absorbing these energetic youngsters into its summer programs and by opening youth complexes all over the Sultanate.
A program under the supervision of sports and cultural specialists will get a positive response from the students. They can indulge in their favorite games and hobbies and boost their skills: the youth complexes have huge resources and modern facilities.
Second, there are clubs spread all over Oman. They must play their due role to win the hearts of the students this summer. Open the doors; prepare various programs and let the young talents feast on the rich meals. Let the youngsters flock to the clubs and engage in activities that stimulate mind and body, thought and action. Let the clubs help the youngsters keep the evils of idleness at bay. The clubs, too, can do this because many of them have resources and facilities to make this positive contribution.
Third, the Ministry of Manpower plays a successful role in implementing training and employment programs for the youth. This ministry can play a vital role. Catch them young — the students could be placed in temporary jobs in the private or public sector.
Fourth, the family bears a big share of the responsibility. Our children need to be monitored and supervised during the summer vacation. Programs should be outlined so that they do not stray into dark channels.
Parents should send their sons on courses to hone their skills. The options are plenty, and they include computer skills as well as English and French, two languages that have a special significance in the student’s study and post-university life. Such care and attention, when provided by parents, will yield fruitful results for the future of our sons.
Last but not least, remember the saying, “The devil finds work for idle hands.” So let us all work together to provide the facilities and atmosphere for our sons to spend their summer vacation in a way that will stand them in good stead in the future.
