In Memory of Dr Khalifa Al Khamisi: A Tribute to His Life and Work
Rawan Al Nadabi
It is with profound sorrow that the University learned of the passing of Dr. Khalifa Al Khamisi, the former Head of the Foreign Languages Department, on Saturday, September 2nd, 2023. His sudden death shocked the University community. In honour of his memory, Ishraqah dedicated the "Personality of the Month" to Dr Al Khamisi. This heartfelt dedication is intended to bring solace to those grieving his passing and those not fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.
Dr. Al Khamisi was born on May 30th, 1969, in Hayy as Sa'ad, Bahla. His father worked in the military sector and participated in the Dhofar War. The absence of a father figure at home shaped the children's personalities, particularly in being responsible. However, his mother was very supportive and mindful of education's importance. With his mother's encouragement, he excelled in school and was known for being a top-notch performer. He was not the oldest nor the youngest, he was the third child in order. While his two older brothers chose to be in the military sector, he chose the opposite path and became an educator.
To his family, he was the first child to pursue his higher education, and to many after him, he was a beacon to follow. He began his education journey at Sultan Qaboos University and graduated in 1994 with a B.Ed in English language teaching. He went on to earn a master's degree in TESOL from the University of Southern Australia in 2007, followed by a PhD in applied linguistics and TESOL from the University of Southern Queensland in 2019. Along the way, he made many sacrifices, but his determination and hard work paid off in the end.
Dr. Al Khamisi had a diverse career throughout his life. He began as an English language teacher and educational supervisor from 1994 to 2003. From there, he was promoted to the position of Head of the private schools section from 2003 to 2008. He then took a detour from education when he was appointed as an Information Technology assistant director in the Ministry of Education in Oman from 2008 to 2015. In 2012, he started his first part-time job as a lecturer at Arabi Open University, which ended in 2013. Dr. Khamisi returned to his educational path in 2018 and became the director of the Centre of Foundation Studies at the University of Buraimi. His final position was at the University of Nizwa, where he joined as a lecturer in February 2023 and later became the Head of the English Section Department.
Dr. Khamisi was known for his calmness, wisdom, and athleticism. He participated in races and football matches in his hometown. Above all, he was a loving husband, caring father, righteous son, and supportive colleague. Dr. Mohammed Al Ghafri, the current Head of Department, once said, "I knew him since our time as students in Sultan Qaboos University. He was an active, kind, and honest person back then, and he continued to be until his last day”.
Al Ghafri's words truly capture his friend's positive qualities and how they remained with him throughout his life. It's always inspiring to hear stories of individuals who maintain their kindness and honesty, even as they progress in their careers.
Dr Khalifa Al Khamisi was a highly respected and accomplished individual who made significant contributions to the field of education. His sudden passing left a deep impact on the University community, and he will be dearly missed. However, his legacy will live on through his numerous achievements, and the dedication of the "Personality of the Month" to Dr Al Khamisi will serve as a fitting tribute to his life and work. His story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and the importance of education in shaping one's life
