Nizwa is a diverse prosperous place with numerous agricultural, historical and recreational aspects. There is no better place to rub shoulders with the friendly people of Nizwa at the traditional market or ‘souk’. Locals gather here to trade in livestock and socialise under the shade of a huge central tree. Goats are tethered to this tree before being bought or sold. In the alleyways leading away from this central livestock trading area, you’ll find many small shops that sell traditional crafts, Omani antiques (a particularly good spot to hunt for a genuine antique khanjar), rugs, spices and nuts. You can watch the local silversmith at work, repairing khanjars and jewellery in the same way it has been done for generations. The souk also has sections for fruit and vegetables, all of which are locally produced, and the locally grown dates are delicious.
Nizwa College of Technology
Established in 1993 and known until June 2001, as Nizwa Technical and Industrial College, is located on the eastern outskirts of the oasis of Nizwa, about 12 km from the city centre. It is one of the six colleges of technology in the Sultanate, which provide technological education to Omani school graduates in pursuit of the national policy of Omanisation under the noble and wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The college mainly meets the post-school technological training needs of the students from Al-Dakhiliya region; and over the years it has identified itself as an integral part of the city through various activities: the annual open week activities organized by the students, the blood donation programme in association with the local hospital and commercial exhibitions in association with the local business houses. Facilities on the campus include a mosque, hostel accommodation for female students, facilities for sports and cultural activities, a clinic for basic treatment and a canteen, which is used both by students and visitors. Admission to the College is open to all Omani graduates who have achieved a General Secondary School Certificate, with a minimum qualifying score set by the Admissions Committee. |