Higher education opportunities set on high note from 8 - 9 April

H.E. Mohammed bin Ali bin Nasser Al Alawi (Minister of Legal Affairs) will inaugurate the show.

The Arabia's first and only UFI - approved higher education exhibition, Ghedex will be held for the 10th successive year, under the patronage of the Ministry of Higher Education, supported by UNESCO, AMIDEAST, UK Trade and Investment, and The British Council. Ghedex is the flagship event of other education shows, such as Edutech, and Schoolex, organized on the sidelines of more developed events such as Trainex and Jobex. All events are aimed at fostering the country's education, training, and infrastructure and Omanisation strategies.

Ghedex 2009 highlights the participation of leading higher education providers from various countries, including the UK, Canada, India, the UAE, Ireland, Turkey, Cyprus, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, USA, Germany, Malaysia, Jordan, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Tunisia and Oman, among others. Ghedex is the largest international education show in the country that provides an ideal platform for educators, parents and students to exchange information, check on the local and international study options and gain greater awareness of education and training trends necessary for the global marketplace.

With the continuing participation of highly reputed, local and international institutions, Ghedex has been in the forefront in developing the nation's education system, thus paving the way for high quality education standards. Ghedex plays a key role in preparing students and parents on the educational and financial requirements of attending higher education institutions in and outside of the country.

In recent years, Oman's higher education system has witnessed an exponential growth, with an increase of 27.6% in the number of students enrolled at higher education institutions. The demand for high quality education standards has encouraged local universities and colleges to have strong affiliations with international institutions.

Sadiq Ahmed Khan, Director for Sales and Marketing of OITE, said:

"Ghedex for the past 9 years contributed significantly to the education system in Oman. It opens a wide opportunity for students, parents, schools, institutes, colleges, and universities to gather under a single platform and discuss valuable information regarding higher education options in and outside of the country. The event likewise introduces innovative education techniques that create a whole new learning experience for students. Ghedex as the flagship event is also an exceptional platform for everyone on the lookout for Omani and International Higher Education options."

Trainex - Technology Education and Vocational Training Exhibition, is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Manpower and supported by the UK Trade and Investment. Trainex is aimed at enhancing one's potential, bringing in local, regional and international institutions, including technical and vocational schools, training institutes, polytechnics, language centers and special skills course providers. Trainex helps build an education system, characterized by cost effectiveness and conforming to the requirements of the labor market, thus preparing Omanis for the job market across industry sectors.

Jobex - Omanisation and Job Opportunities exhibition is organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Manpower. JOBEX provides the right environment for fresh graduates and professionals on the lookout for better career options. Jobex matches individuals with right companies and offers valuable information, advice and opportunities for individuals interested in career development, considering a change of direction and looking to learn new skills.

The event attracts participation from the biggest names in the education sector. Ghedex is participated in by Oman Tourism College, Sohar University, College of Banking and Financial Studies, International Maritime College of Oman, German University of Technology in Oman - GUTECH, Caledonian College of Engineering, Majan College and Mazoon College as platinum sponsors. Gold Sponsors are: DAAD - the German Academic Exchange Service (also as a Visitor Bag sponsor), Dhofar University, Waljat Colleges of Applied Sciences, Australian Education International and Abu Dhabi University as a silver sponsor.

Trainex gold sponsors are Polyglot Institute and Rusayll Institute and ACCA is a silver sponsor. Jobex platinum sponsors are Oman Air and Oman International Bank while Muscat Electricity Company, Mohsin Haider Darwish and Galfar Engineering and Contracting Company are silver sponsors. Edutech platinum sponsor is Technology Resources Network.