Muscat-
As part of its strategic programmes and initiatives for 2024, the Royal Academy of Management has launched an executive programme in resilience and risk management, aiming to develop national competencies capable of addressing future challenges and formulating effective strategies for crisis and risk management.
This programme is strategically aligned with the National Risk Register by the Secretariat-General of the National Security Council, and actively supports national efforts to tackle this critical issue in line with future aspirations. It is delivered in partnership with the Cabinet Office Emergency Planning College, United Kingdom, bringing global expertise to strengthen resilience and risk management capabilities
Dr. Fathiya Al Rashdi, Vice President for Programme Affairs at the Royal Academy of Management, stated that the programme is a strategic initiative designed to empower the national specialised cadre competencies, fostering enhanced national resilience and developing adaptive executive capacities capable of effectively managing risks and emergencies. It also focuses on the development and implementation of flexible policies to ensure business continuity within the public sector. She further clarified that the primary objective of the programme is to bolster the sustainability of operations in critical sectors across Oman by cultivating advanced skills in emergency planning and risk management, thereby ensuring a high level of preparedness to address crises and unforeseen challenges
Dr. Fathiya pointed out that the programme addresses the growing need for developing cadres capable of dealing with contemporary challenges and proactively ensuring business continuity. She added, “Through this programme, we aim to create a community of qualified Omani leaders to ensure the continuity of work and deliver effective performance despite challenges, contributing to institutional excellence and supporting sustainable development, as envisioned by the Sultanate of Oman.”
The programme is structured around three core modules, each designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of risk management while strengthening business continuity within institutions. The first module focuses on corporate risk management, equipping participants with the tools to identify, assess, and analyse risks across various sectors, while also formulating effective strategies to mitigate them. The second module delves into crisis management and emergency planning, prioritising the development of integrated response plans and training participants in rapid decision-making during crises. The third module centres on business continuity in the public sector, cultivating key concepts and providing detailed plans for managing emergencies and ensuring uninterrupted operations. This includes the implementation of modern communication strategies with stakeholders, as well as the development of both internal and external communication skills, which are essential for maintaining continuity and effectively managing crises.
The programme is designed for 25 participants working in risk management, emergency planning, and business continuity at the managerial or department head level – and equivalent positions – within public sector institutions. Participants will be selected through a direct nomination process by their unit heads, followed by a thorough assessment exercise. The programme will offer a comprehensive mix of intensive learning sessions, interactive workshops, hands-on training, and site visits, addressing real-world challenges while drawing insights from both local and international experiences. Key objectives of the programme include strengthening adaptive leadership skills, equipping participants with the ability to manage change and navigate challenges with flexibility and effectiveness. It will also foster the development of a resilient knowledge community, promoting cross-sector collaboration, experience sharing, and the transfer of best practices. The programme will run for three months, from December 2024 to February 2025.
The Emergency Planning College (EPC) is the leading hub for resilience learning and development in the UK and is part of the Cabinet Office Resilience Directorate, specialising in national resilience, emergency planning, crisis management, and business continuity. Since 1989, the College has been offering training programmes and multilateral workshops and has played a leading role both nationally and internationally in enhancing the capacities of institutions in the public and private sectors, underscoring its esteemed position in supporting crisis preparedness and response efforts.
