Job Discussion Forums

[Warning Bells]

Has anyone ever heard of the International Business Institute in Nizwa? If so, what do you know about it?

[pinch]

Warning Bells,

I have read your blog /message I hope you get this before you do anything drastic.

You may have read other messages from other people in particular a Filipino teacher. Beware of PSC or IQ Centre or even the new company the International Business Institution in Nizwa.

I first went out to Oman back in April 2011 to work for Chris (Mod edit) on a new project which was set up in Nizwa called the International Business Institution. Got out there to find that I was being farmed out to various companies and that really I was not working for Chris at all I went to one meeting and was told say you are from this company (An English Language organisation based in Muscat) whilst sitting in the meeting this was the first I new that I was with Gulf. This was clearly false information given over to me and to the client for which I was astounded at.

Also I went down to Nizwa to find that where I was stay was no way complete nether was the institution which Chris had set up called The International Business Institution. Also the Centre Manager who was joint in charge with Chris in running the operation down in Nizwa Gary,MOD edit)

Whilst in Oman I was also promised my expenses which was close to a 1000 pounds and was kept told don't worry they will be paid and to just chill and relax. Something which, after a week being in Oman I got a bit fed up with hearing. Whilst out there I had one meeting no schedule and as I said no institute to work in and OH no students. Then I was suddenly given students who were living way up in the mountains of Nizwa over an hour away I was told that I needed to get to them. One wonders how by magic carpet!!! This was a 'loose contract' my reading is 'can pull the plug at any time'

Over all my time in Oman has been stressful and a complete nightmare. I have been teaching for over 5 years in various parts of the world and have had my fair share of Mickey Mouse schools but this one takes the biscuit. I left Oman having tried to get my expenses paid which is like getting blood from a stone. I am still having this battle back in the UK, which to be honest I have written off. My main piece of advice to any teacher no mater how experienced how old is to avoid these guys at all cost they promise the world but deliver an atlas and a half dog eaten one at that. Chris has no dealings with money going in or out of the company even through he runs IQ centre and the International Business Institution in Nizwa. Salim has not replied to any of my correspondence even through I have had dealings with him. Gary is still running a muck down in Nizwa coursing havoc and will bring the reputation of any good teacher down with him as Nizwa is a one horse town.
I was not going to put my reputation as an extremely creative profession English teacher at risk of what seems like a highly unethical situation.

So in conclusion please read this blog read blogs on PSC and IQ Centre and the International Business Institution and think very, very carefully before boarding a plane to Oman to work for these guys because unless you have endless money and like working for cowboys then this is not the job for you.

I hope this helps you.

(MOD edit for names)

[Sleepwalker]

Sorry to hear that your experience was so bad and even sorrier to hear that these creatures are still able to stay in business.

Hope your future is much brighter.

[Warning Bells]

Dear pinch,

Sorry to hear about your experience. Good of you to post.

I never applied to this organization. I half expected to hear either nothing or a horror story as they are not a recognized employer in the gulf. Such institutes without a solid reputation should be avoided at all costs. The kinds of people who run these businesses are not professionals. You are dealing with low-lifes who will do anything for money. TEFL is just their sidekick.