Organised by the Department of Financial Affairs at the University, the Social Protection System Forum commenced today, targeting SQU staff in order to address their questions and concerns. The forum was held under the patronage of Dr. Nasser bin Musabbah Al-Zeidi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs.

In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Waddah bin Zaher Al-Sibani, Director of Financial Affairs, highlighted the significance of the forum’s timing. He noted that it comes amid major transformations in the social protection system in the Sultanate of Oman, one of the nation’s key strategic projects, aimed at enhancing social and financial stability for various segments of society, particularly employees in both the public and private sectors.

Dr. Al-Sibani also pointed out that since its announcement, the social protection system has sparked extensive discussion due to its broad relevance to the future and rights, both social and financial, f Omani citizens. The system represents a qualitative leap towards a secure future rooted in justice, solidarity, and sustainability.

The forum included a lecture delivered by a team from the Social Protection Fund. Al-Harith bin Mahmoud Al-Saadi, Head of Litigation at the Legal Affairs Department of the Fund, introduced the concept of the system and explained how it was designed and the levels it covers.

Abdulnasser bin Salim Al-Jadidi, Head of Subscriber Data at the General Directorate of Subscriptions, spoke about social insurance programmes, the requirements for registration, and the various registration types.

Malik bin Salim Al-Harthi, Director General of Entitlements at the Social Protection Fund, then addressed issues related to pensions for the elderly, early retirement, death benefits, the eligible categories, and the calculation methods. He also spoke about work injury and occupational disease insurance, as well as job security insurance. The presentation concluded with information on maternity leave and the savings system.

Following the presentations, Malik Al-Harthi, Al-Harith Al-Saadi, and Abdulnasser Al-Jadidi took part in a panel discussion moderated by Maher bin Mallallah Al-Zadjali, Head of Digital Communications at the Department of Communication and Media. The session included a question and answer segment, during which audience members' questions and enquiries were addressed.