Dr. Mahad bin Saeed Baowain, Minister of Labour, outlined the Ministry's ambitious objectives for the current year in a recent press conference.
He stated that the Ministry's goal is to generate 35,000 job opportunities across both public and private sectors, with a target of achieving a 90% job replacement rate in the government sector.
Baowain highlighted that as of August 2023, the total number of employees in permanent and temporary positions in the government sector stood at approximately 195,902, comprising 170,735 Omanis and 25,167 non-Omanis.
Furthermore, he noted that the private sector employed 2,145,553 individuals by the end of 2023, with 253,399 Omanis and 1,892,154 non-Omanis (commercial and private).
Baowain also mentioned an initiative under consideration for families with no employed members, which may involve updating job descriptions and restricting competition within this group or establishing a specialized program for their benefit.
Dr. Baowain provided insight into the ongoing debate surrounding the Omani Aviation Training Program, which has sparked numerous inquiries recently, particularly regarding the current situation of trainee pilots and their prospects post-program completion.
In collaboration with Oman Air, a collaborative training initiative was established to prepare and certify Omani aviation professionals for entry into this vital industry.
Despite facing obstacles throughout the training phase, several trainees managed to successfully finish the program and earn their qualifications.
Due to the deepening financial crisis affecting Oman Air, there is now a dilemma in terms of committing to hiring program graduates.
The Minister elaborated that the Ministry is actively engaged in dialogues and negotiations with relevant authorities to identify suitable resolutions to this issue.
However, Oman Air has released a statement to clarify that it will indeed be continuing its training program for aspiring pilots. The airline has accepted a total of 86 Omani trainees to participate in the program, as part of its commitment to empowering Omani individuals in the field of commercial aviation.
Furthermore, the company has recently signed training contracts with 21 pilots who have previously graduated from the program. These contracts are aimed at providing employment opportunities for these pilots within Oman Air or other airlines. In light of this, the company has expressed its willingness to welcome additional graduates to join its team.
Transfer of Employment Responsibility to Sectors:
The Ministry of Labor in Oman has recently unveiled a new approach aimed at transferring employment responsibility to various sectors. Under this strategy, sector owners will assume the responsibility of providing the necessary resources and human capital required by their respective sectors.
According to Sheikh Nasr Al-Hassani, the Undersecretary of Labor, this initiative is expected to yield positive outcomes in the upcoming year, with an increase in the availability of high-quality job opportunities. Al-Hassani further explained that the ministry's role will involve offering logistical support, as well as coordinating with sector owners to provide training and rehabilitation programs.
He emphasized that there are certain job positions that only those within the respective sectors are aware of or possess the expertise to allocate effectively. Al-Hassani highlighted the success of this strategy in the energy and oil sector, which has effectively managed its human resources needs.
Furthermore, this experience will be extended to other sectors such as tourism, fisheries, and higher education. Al-Hassani assured that the Ministry of Labor will actively participate in ensuring the provision of adequate human resources and will play a vital role in overseeing the implementation of this strategy.
Transition Between sectors
Al Hassani emphasized the significance of recognizing the current availability of sector transitions for job seekers. It is now possible for individuals to work in the private sector and apply for positions in the public or government sector, and vice versa.
This development is crucial as it addresses the previous hesitation among job seekers to work in the private sector, as they believed it would hinder their chances of securing a government job. The unification of insurance into a single fund further supports this shift.
Focus on Skills
Al Hassani stressed that future employment will rely not only on specialization, but also on skills. He urged individuals to enhance their skills in order to align with job openings, as these skills will be the key to unlocking opportunities and improving their chances of securing employment.
