Move to bridge skill gap of Omani youth in Al Batinah North
Published: 05:09 PM,Sep 17,2024 | EDITED : 08:09 PM,Sep 17,2024
Move to bridge skill gap of Omani youth in Al Batinah North
SUHAR: As part of the Ministry of Education's strategic shift towards diversifying educational pathways, 300 students from Al Batinah North schools have enrolled in technical and vocational education for the 2024-25 academic year. This initiative is a key step in the ministry’s effort to address the growing need for skilled professionals in the labour market and equip students with industry relevant skills.
Saif bin Hareb al Ghafri, the General Assistant for Administrative and Financial Affairs at Al Batinah North directorate said, “The students have been placed in various accredited training institutes, including Polyglot Sohar Institute, Sohar Industrial Training Institute (Sohar Aluminium), and Knowledge Grid Academy. Over the course of two years, they will engage in specialised programmes in mechanical manufacturing engineering, engineering maintenance, solid structure maintenance, occupational health and safety, welding and metal forming, and lifting and lowering operations.” This vocational pathway initiative is designed for students in grades 11 and 12, and aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which emphasises sustainable development and economic diversification. “It reflects the Ministry of Education’s forward-thinking approach, adapting to both local market demands and global trends in education,' Al Ghafri added.
Ahmed Ali, a student participant in this initiative, commented, “We are glad for such initiatives, it widens our horizons and helps us to identify job markets and learn in real life. We met experts and experienced people in different fields. I feel that we are preparing for a bright future, we are secured and ready for the future.”
The collaboration with private sector companies offers students practical experience through on the job training, field visits, and real applications of their studies. This approach ensures that students are not only receiving theoretical knowledge, but are also acquiring the practical skills required by industries in Oman and beyond.
By embracing technical and vocational education, the Ministry of Education aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, preparing Omani youth to compete in a rapidly evolving job market. This modern approach to education reflects the nation’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute to Oman’s economic growth and industrial development.
Saif bin Hareb al Ghafri, the General Assistant for Administrative and Financial Affairs at Al Batinah North directorate said, “The students have been placed in various accredited training institutes, including Polyglot Sohar Institute, Sohar Industrial Training Institute (Sohar Aluminium), and Knowledge Grid Academy. Over the course of two years, they will engage in specialised programmes in mechanical manufacturing engineering, engineering maintenance, solid structure maintenance, occupational health and safety, welding and metal forming, and lifting and lowering operations.” This vocational pathway initiative is designed for students in grades 11 and 12, and aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which emphasises sustainable development and economic diversification. “It reflects the Ministry of Education’s forward-thinking approach, adapting to both local market demands and global trends in education,' Al Ghafri added.
Ahmed Ali, a student participant in this initiative, commented, “We are glad for such initiatives, it widens our horizons and helps us to identify job markets and learn in real life. We met experts and experienced people in different fields. I feel that we are preparing for a bright future, we are secured and ready for the future.”
The collaboration with private sector companies offers students practical experience through on the job training, field visits, and real applications of their studies. This approach ensures that students are not only receiving theoretical knowledge, but are also acquiring the practical skills required by industries in Oman and beyond.
By embracing technical and vocational education, the Ministry of Education aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, preparing Omani youth to compete in a rapidly evolving job market. This modern approach to education reflects the nation’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute to Oman’s economic growth and industrial development.