MUSCAT : The Oman Gavel Championship of Public Speaking 2026 (OGCPS 2026) was successfully conducted at Indian School Darsait, Muscat, providing school students with a structured opportunity to demonstrate communication and leadership skills developed through the Gavel Club programme. Gavel Clubs offer opportunities to individuals, typically those under 18, to hone their public speaking skills. The championship is organised as part of Toastmasters International, a global non-profit educational organisation dedicated to fostering effective communication and leadership.
The championship reached its conclusion with the Finals and Valedictory Function held on Friday, 30 January 2026, bringing together young speakers from Gavel Clubs across Oman in a celebration of articulation, confidence, and leadership.
Earlier, the Semi-Finals, held on 23 January 2026, saw active participation from 30 Gavel Clubs, with over 240 Gaveliers competing across four contest categories. After a rigorous and impartial judging process, eight participants from each category qualified for the Finals, where they displayed clarity of expression, confidence, and effective public speaking skills.
The event was honoured by the presence of His Excellency Shri G. V. Srinivas, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, who attended as the Chief Guest, who, in his address, highlighted the importance of communication and leadership skills in shaping personal and professional success. The Keynote Address was delivered by Mr. Damodar Katti, Managing Director, DGEC, who spoke on the significance of creativity, confidence, and communication in shaping future leaders.
The programme was further graced by Mr. Shalimar Moideen, President of the School Management Committee, Indian School Darsait, and Mr. Amar Srivastava, Principal, Indian School Darsait, who attended as Guests of Honour and addressed the gathering, offering encouragement and motivation to the students. Representing Toastmasters, DTM Cyprian Misquith, District Director, District 105, highlighted the contribution of Gavel Clubs in developing leadership and communication skills among students.
The championship concluded with the felicitation of winners across all contest categories during the evening valedictory ceremony. The event was organised and conducted under the leadership of DTM Praveen V. Panicker, Chairman, Oman Gavel Championship of Public Speaking 2026, with the support of Gavel Club counsellors, Toastmasters leaders, coordinators, volunteers, and participating schools across Oman
