Shaping Future Leaders: Dr. Marwa Ali Al Hinai’s Impact on Education and Social Marketing

The Power of Education: Dr. Marwa Ali Al Hinai’s Inspirational Journey
Education has been the bedrock of Dr. Marwa Ali Al Hinai’s life, shaping her into a formidable force in the world of academia and social marketing. As the Assistant Professor of Marketing and Head of Internationalization at the College of Economics and Political Science at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman, Dr. Al Hinai’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact of a supportive family environment.

Dr. Al Hinai grew up in a family where knowledge was highly valued. Her father, a medical Doctor, exemplified the pursuit of higher education while balancing family responsibilities. His unwavering commitment to learning ignited a passion in Dr. Al Hinai to achieve her full potential. Her father’s dream for his children to attain the highest levels of education became her guiding star, instilling in her the belief that education is a lifelong pursuit.

From Student to Advocate
Dr. Al Hinai’s early years were spent between Egypt and the USA, where her father was studying. These experiences laid the foundation for her academic journey, which began in Egypt and USA .A pivotal moment in her life came when she heard a speech by the late Sultan Qaboos of Oman at Sultan Qaboos University. His vision for the university as a leading institution and its role in national development inspired Dr. Al Hinai to contribute to this vision.

Determined to make a difference, she pursued a degree in business with a specialization in marketing at Sultan Qaboos University. Her aspiration to become a lecturer grew stronger, and she joined the university’s Center for Community Service and Continuing Education. To further enhance her qualifications, Dr. Al Hinai pursued an MBA in the United States. Upon returning to Oman, she realized her dream of becoming a lecturer at the College of Economics and Political Science.

Driven by a desire to make a significant impact, Dr. Al Hinai embarked on a PhD at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on social marketing. This relatively unexplored field in Oman drew her in due to its potential to create positive societal change. Witnessing effective social marketing campaigns in the USA, such as those promoting child safety through the use of car seats, solidified her commitment to advocate for similar initiatives in Oman.

Achievements and Aspirations
Dr. Al Hinai’s career is marked by numerous achievements. She was recognized as the Best Teacher at the College of Economics and Political Science in 2022, a testament to her dedication and impact on her students. One of her proudest accomplishments involves a student-led project that competed in the GCC Healthcon, organized by the GCC Health Council. The team’s dedication and creativity won them the Best Idea for Behavioral Change award, showcasing the potential of her students and the positive impact they can make on society.

Dr. Al Hinai believes that educators hold a unique position of influence, shaping the minds of future leaders. Witnessing the growth and success of her students is incredibly rewarding, fueling her passion for teaching and learning. She advocates for active learning in her courses, emphasizing hands-on experience through practical, real-world projects. By shifting the focus from passive information consumption to active knowledge construction, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice
Beyond teaching excellence, Dr. Al Hinai is committed to serving the community by bridging the gap between theory and practice. She has worked on numerous marketing-related projects, delivered workshops and lectures to the community, and engaged with various public and private organizations. By translating complex academic concepts into practical applications, she aims to create a tangible impact on society.

Through research, teaching, and community engagement, Dr. Al Hinai strives to foster a culture of innovation and problem-solving that benefits both academia and the community at large. While awards and recognition are gratifying, she believes true fulfillment comes from personal growth and continuous development. Dr. Al Hinai avoids comparing herself to others, focusing instead on her own progress and aspirations.

Looking Ahead
Dr. Al Hinai’s recent appointment as Head of Internationalization at the college signifies her commitment to expanding her impact and creating opportunities for students to engage with the global academic community. Her goal is to contribute to the growth and success of her institution while inspiring future generations of leaders and change-makers.

Dr. Marwa Ali Al Hinai’s journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and the impact of a supportive family environment. Her dedication to social marketing and education continues to inspire and empower those around her, driving positive change in Oman and beyond.

Click here to check her Instagram