Milestone as over 19,000 Bahrainis are employed and 13,679 trained this year

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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Bahrain is nearing its annual employment target well ahead of schedule, with 98 per cent achieved and over 19,000 citizens stepping into new jobs this year.

The Labour Minister, His Excellency Jameel Humaidan, credited this upswing to the Economic Recovery Plan, the National Labour Market Plan for 2023-2026, and the wider development drive led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, closely followed up by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Third quarter employment indicators this year showed steady advancement, with 19,689 citizens employed between January and September.

“Our efforts to create jobs and opportunities support national growth,” Humaidan said, adding that the ministry’s partnership with the Labour Fund, Tamkeen, has been central to this progress. Tamkeen’s training efforts have exceeded targets, with 13,679 Bahrainis trained this year — 37 per cent above the goal.

Leadership

Under H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa’s leadership, these programmes include wage support and training tailored to market needs.

“The impact of these efforts is clear in our third quarter employment figures,” Humaidan stated, with further gains anticipated. First-time entrants to the labour market reach 6,436, or 33 per cent of third quarter hires, while women now form 39 per cent of the workforce — a two per cent increase since the last quarter.

Progress

University graduates have also seen progress, with 37 per cent now employed, marking a seven per cent rise over the second quarter. Bahrain’s tracking system, meeting international standards, publishes regular updates to guide strategies and keep unemployment low.

“These insights help us respond quickly to market shifts,” Humaidan explained.

Support

He praised private firms for prioritising Bahrainis and urged continued support. “Local businesses have been indispensable,” he said, encouraging them to maintain focus on hiring Bahrainis.

Looking ahead, Tamkeen plans to support up to 50,000 Bahrainis annually through three key initiatives: assisting new workforce entrants, promoting career development, and supporting private sector employment needs.