H E Shaikh Saad bin Mohammed al Mardhouf al Saadi, Minister of Sports Affairs, presided over the launch of a CSR programme on Monday as BankMuscat launched its 'Green Sports Initiative'. BankMuscat's chairman Sheikh Khalid bin Mustahail al Mashani and vice chairman Sulaiman bin Mohammed al Yahyai were also present during the launch.
The initiative, which is the first of its kind in Oman, is for the benefit of the youth, as it aims to develop green fields in different sports clubs across the country. "It is a commendable initiative undertaken by BankMuscat as it helps lay foundation at the grassroot level for sports infrastructure across Oman," said H E Saadi when addressing the audience. "The initiative also contributes to sustainable development and protection of the environment, thereby ensuring all-round development in Oman."
The five-year programme will contribute to sustainable development and protection of the environment and BankMuscat's hopes that these local clubs will produce excellent sportsmen for Oman.
The bank will develop not only green expanses but will also undertake several community projects for the youth. Their focus on sports is due to their belief that sporting activities are essential to the
population's physical and mental well-being. The Green Sports Initiative will see BankMuscat align itself with the global UNEP programme.
Addressing a press conference, the chairman of BankMuscat informed about how the initiative facilitated a partnership between the government and the private sector. "BankMuscat is committed to developing infrastructure for sports, and nurturing young talent."
The chief executive of BankMuscat Abdul Razak Ali Issa alluded to previous CSR initiatives and said, "Our 'We Can Do More' initiative focused on the concept of reaching out to society in all arenas. The 'Green Sports Initiative' is a strategic decision by the bank to lay the foundation for a sporting nation in partnership with the Ministry of Sports."
BankMuscat is the first Omani bank to establish a CSR department. The bank is of the view that its social responsibility is not merely participation in charitable works, but responsibility towards allround development of the society, with benefits reaching the youth and job-seekers and provision of opportunities for the development of skills and human capital.
Efforts are also targeted at individuals with special needs to enhance their capabilities with the aim of integrating them into the mainstream.
According to Essam Yahya al Sharji, BankMuscat's CSR manager, the Green Sports Initiative is another cog in the wheel of their CSR drive. "Early this year, BankMuscat announced 'Jesr al Mustaqbal' (bridge to future) youth scholarship programme to provide relevant educational and training opportunities to Omani youth to develop employable skills.
More details on how to apply for Green Sports funding will be shared soon on BankMuscat's website and their social media pages (Facebook & Twitter).
© Muscat Daily 2012
