Oman Launches ‘Irtiqa’ Programme to Boost Digital Leadership

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in Oman has announced the launch of a new programme called “Irtiqa”, meaning ascension, aimed at developing national competencies in government digital transition. This initiative represents a significant step forward in Oman's strategy to modernize government services, promote innovation, and empower a generation of leaders capable of driving the digital transformation of public institutions.

Strategic Partnerships to Drive the Programme

“Irtiqa” has been launched in collaboration with prominent national institutions, including the Royal Academy of Management (RAM), the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS), and the Omani Society for Human Resources Management (OSHRM). By partnering with these organizations, the programme seeks to integrate advanced academic insights, professional development strategies, and human resource expertise to ensure that participants gain the knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities required for effective digital governance.

Objectives of the Irtiqa Programme

The main aim of Irtiqa is to cultivate a generation of leaders who can spearhead government digital transition and foster innovation within public sector workflows. The programme focuses on enhancing the quality of government services, improving the user experience on digital platforms, and supporting Oman’s broader vision of a knowledge economy. Officials emphasized that digital knowledge is not merely a tool but represents a form of capital that is essential for sustainable economic growth and for meeting the evolving expectations of citizens and residents.

Visual Presentation Highlights Digital Pillars

During the launch ceremony, a visual presentation showcased the key pillars of government digital transformation. The session highlighted the importance of building national capacities, developing expertise, and empowering individuals to meet the strategic requirements of government digital initiatives. Emphasis was placed on exchanging knowledge and expertise to ensure the long-term sustainability of digital capabilities within Omani public institutions, fostering a workforce that can efficiently manage and innovate within the digital space.

Dialogue on Human Role in Digital Transition

The ceremony also featured an interactive dialogue session that focused on the central role of human resources in leading digital transformation. Experts and participants discussed how human capital, guided by proper training and leadership development, can accelerate digital adoption and ensure that technological investments translate into real-world improvements in public service delivery. This focus reflects Oman’s understanding that while technology is essential, the success of any digital transition relies heavily on skilled professionals capable of managing and adapting to change.

Building on Previous Achievements

The launch of Irtiqa builds on Oman’s previous initiatives to improve government performance and digital capabilities. One notable precursor is the National Programme for Government Digital Transition, codenamed “Tahawul”, which achieved an overall performance rate of 80 percent by the first half of 2025, up from 73 percent in 2024. This progression demonstrates the country’s commitment to continuous improvement, systematic capacity building, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable innovation in public service.

Impact on Knowledge Economy and Public Services

Officials highlighted that Irtiqa is expected to contribute significantly to Oman’s vision of a knowledge-based economy, where digital literacy, technological competence, and leadership skills serve as key drivers of sustainable growth. By training leaders to implement best practices, manage digital systems effectively, and innovate within government workflows, the programme is positioned to enhance the efficiency of public services, improve citizen satisfaction, and ensure the long-term resilience of Oman’s digital ecosystem.

Vision for Sustainable Leadership

The Ministry emphasized that Irtiqa is more than a training programme; it represents a strategic vision to embed digital literacy and leadership into the fabric of Oman’s public sector. Graduates of the programme will be expected to serve as champions of change, guiding the government through an era of technological advancement while fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. The initiative also reflects Oman’s proactive approach to preparing its workforce for emerging digital challenges and opportunities in line with global standards.