MUSCAT: Dr Said Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy, has stressed the pivotal role of a dynamic and robust labour market in driving Oman's economic growth and creating opportunities for its citizens. With the workforce witnessing rapid expansion, Dr Al Saqri emphasised the need for comprehensive labour market reforms that focus not just on quantity, but also on the quality and relevance of employment opportunities.
His comments came in the context of the ‘Together We Progress’ forum, which opened on Sunday under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth.
The strategic vision articulated in the Tenth Five-Year Plan outlines a blueprint for building a more robust and resilient labour market. This plan goes beyond mere numerical growth, prioritizing the creation of high-quality and relevant job opportunities across various sectors. A key aspect of this approach is a shift in perspective on Omanisation. Rather than focusing solely on achieving specific percentages, Dr Al Saqri underlined the importance of strategically upskilling and empowering Omanis to take on leadership positions within companies. This strategic approach promotes the upskilling and career advancement of Omanis, ensuring a more equitable distribution of opportunities and unlocking the full potential of the nation's human capital.
Aware of the ever-evolving job market landscape, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation has taken proactive steps to equip Omanis with the necessary skills and adaptability. They have established a flexible and future-oriented education system that focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy. This forward-thinking strategy will position Oman as a leader in innovation and competitiveness, ready to seize the opportunities of tomorrow and navigate the disruptions that may arise.
"We are committed to building a future-proof labour market that empowers Omanis and fuels our economic diversification goals," Dr Al Saqri stated, underlining the government's dedication to achieving these objectives. "By fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration, we can ensure that Oman's workforce remains competitive and ready to thrive in the decades ahead." Dr Al Saqri's vision, coupled with the dedicated efforts of relevant ministries and private sector stakeholders, paints a promising picture of an agile and adaptable labor market in Oman. Through strategic reforms, a nuanced approach to Omanisation, and a focus on future-proofing the workforce, Oman is well-positioned to not only overcome present challenges but also emerge as a thriving hub of innovation and opportunity in the coming decades.
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