June 12^th, 2008.

Dear Omani students and scholars

Greetings from Washington,

It is a great honor to introduce myself as the new Cultural Attaché in the Omani Embassy here in Washington DC. I am delighted to be here and welcome the opportunity to be of service to all of you.

I started my assignment in the office on Monday, 9^th June, 2008 and the past couple of days have been primarily acquainting myself with the nature of work at the Mulhaqiyah, the team I work with and above all developing an understanding of the scope and magnitude of students’ academic issues here in the USA and Canada.

Prior to this assignment, I worked as a faculty member & Assistant Dean for Research and Post Graduate Studies at Sultan Qaboos University’s College of Commerce & Economics, and while my whole career has been grounded in human resource issues and career development within Omani organizations, I am particularly enthused about this assignment which brings me very close to students and scholars who strive to advance their professional and career prospects by attending some of the finest world institutions of learning. To be part of this building block is a wonderful honor which I hope to implement with great care and dedication.

We are all Ambassadors of our beloved country Oman in the USA & Canada. It is therefore imperative that we present ourselves in the best light and as a true reflection of our positive values and culture. Living and learning in a foreign environment is an exciting yet challenging business; please be assured that I will do all that I can to provide you with the support that ensures your success and progress in your studies and scholarship. In this regard, please feel free to contact me by e-mail or phone should you have any issue that you wish to discuss or consult with me. I will also greatly welcome your input on how we may improve the service that we provide.

Let me also seize this opportunity to extend my deep appreciation to Dr. Talib Al-Salmi for all his support in facilitating my transition to this assignment and above all, for the professional and caring service he furnished during his tenure as the Cultural Attaché to the USA & Canada.

Wish best wishes and salaams,

_______________________________

Asya bint Mohamed Al-Lamki, Ed.D.,

Cultural Attaché