MUSCAT: Persons with disabilities will get more jobs in the government with the Ministry of Labour announcing 100 fresh openings this year and 100 more next year, a top official said.
Ammar bin Salim al Saadi, Director-General of the General Directorate of Labour and official MoL spokesperson, said that the initiative is based on the data on active job-seekers with disabilities.
Al Saadi highlighted that the MoL carried out extensive coordination with various government entities prior to announcing the positions.
These entities were formally approached to identify their needs based on qualifications and specialisations required in each governorate.
He added that priority was given to entities that demonstrate preparedness in terms of infrastructure and workplace environment, where employees with disabilities can perform effectively.
Beyond recruitment, the ministry will continue to support such candidates through the Employment and Training Support Centre. This includes on-the-job training contracts, salary coverage for one year, and continuous follow-up to ensure job stability and integration.
Al Saadi noted that, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance, employing entities will provide permanent financial positions upon completion of the support period, reinforcing employment sustainability and transitioning these opportunities into long-term roles.
Al Saadi acknowledged that certain challenges remain, including the readiness of some workplaces in terms of infrastructure and accessibility.
Nevertheless, he confirmed a positive outlook towards expanding the initiative in the coming years, with a gradual increase in opportunities in line with workplace readiness and labour market needs.
Regarding the inclusion of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, he noted that expansion within the public sector may currently be limited due to the nature of work environments. However, the private sector offers greater flexibility in accommodating such cases and providing suitable employment opportunities.
Al Saadi said 519 jobs were provided to persons with disabilities between 2021 and 2025.
He added that additional batches of job opportunities are expected to be announced in the near future, both within the public sector and in collaboration with the private sector, based on market demand and institutional readiness. He also emphasised that 2 per cent of all job announcements are allocated to persons with disabilities.
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