The Education System in Finland and The Sultanate of Oman: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Educational reform in the Sultanate of Oman constitutes a strategic priority in light of Oman Vision 2040, especially with Finland’s excellence in the international Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) tests. The study aims to conduct an analytical comparison between the education system in Finland and the education system in the Sultanate of Oman to identify similarities and differences and to derive lessons learned for improving the quality of education in the Sultanate of Oman. The study adopted the comparative approach through the analysis of official documents, previous studies, and international reports to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information. The results showed that the Finnish system is characterized by a high degree of decentralization, the selection of teachers from among the elite, and the adoption of flexible curricula that enhance critical thinking and innovation, while the Sultanate of Oman seeks to modernize its educational system with a focus on developing human capital and linking education to the labor market, with differences in the degree of decentralization, the nature of teacher selection, curricula, and assessment methods. These results contributed to providing practical recommendations for developing education in the Sultanate of Oman, including preparing teachers academically and professionally, focusing on active learning strategies in line with the requirements of international assessments, emphasizing formative and descriptive assessment to support individual learning, and providing stimulating learning environments that integrate theoretical aspects with practical application.