Oman Vision 2040 & Data Culture: Oman’s NCSI will launch the interactive data management app “Artaj” on June 24 in Muscat, aiming to strengthen national statistics and give schoolchildren a hands-on way to learn about data and surveys. Education Quality: OAQAE’s board held its first meeting in the new formation, reviewing education quality assurance work, approving the 2027 budget, and setting priorities for 2026–2030. Economy & Cost of Living: Oman’s inflation hit 3.8% in May, driven by transport, food, and personal services, while housing-related costs dipped slightly. Development Push: Oman’s 2025 development spending rose to RO 1.577bn, with big shares for infrastructure and social projects like education, healthcare, digital systems, and cultural facilities. Business & Culture of Franchising: OCCI launched the 5th Franchise Programme to back scalable Omani brands and SMEs, with partnerships aimed at expanding regionally and internationally. Arts & Heritage Spotlight: “Threads of Memory” profiles Omani artist Fatema al Makhmariya, tracing her journey from Shinas to university study and a master’s in fine arts. Lifestyle & Finance: Sohar Islamic unveiled its premium Infinite Credit Card for high-net-worth clients, built around Shariah principles and exclusivity. Sports & Youth: MCBS hosted a gaming championship with RedBull Mobile support, showing how e-sports is growing among Oman’s students.