Bahrain is making significant progress towards its annual employment target ahead of schedule, with 98% achieved and over 19,000 citizens securing new jobs in the current year. This success has been attributed to the Economic Recovery Plan, the National Labour Market Plan for 2023-2026, and the broader development efforts led by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Third quarter employment indicators reveal a steady increase, with nearly 20,000 citizens employed between January and September.
The Labour Minister, Jameel Humaidan, highlighted the importance of creating jobs and opportunities to support national growth. He emphasized the crucial role played by the ministry’s partnership with the Labour Fund, Tamkeen, which has exceeded training targets this year by 37%. Tamkeen’s initiatives include wage support and training programs tailored to meet the market demands, contributing to the positive employment trends witnessed in the third quarter.
Under the leadership of Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, various programs have been implemented to support workforce development. The impact of these initiatives is evident in the third quarter employment figures, with a significant number of first-time entrants to the labor market and an increasing representation of women in the workforce. University graduates have also experienced an increase in employment rates, showcasing the effectiveness of Bahrain’s tracking system in aligning with international standards and guiding strategies to combat unemployment.
Humaidan praised private companies for prioritizing the employment of Bahrainis and called for continued support from the business community. He acknowledged the vital role played by local businesses in driving economic growth and urged them to continue focusing on hiring Bahraini nationals. Looking ahead, Tamkeen aims to support up to 50,000 Bahrainis annually through initiatives focused on assisting new workforce entrants, promoting career development, and addressing the employment needs of the private sector.
In conclusion, Bahrain’s progress towards its employment targets reflects a concerted effort by the government, private sector, and other stakeholders to create job opportunities and support the workforce. The success achieved in the third quarter is a testament to the effectiveness of targeted training programs, strategic partnerships, and proactive measures to address market demands. With a focus on sustaining these efforts and promoting inclusive growth, Bahrain is poised to further enhance its employment landscape and contribute to the overall economic development of the country.
