MPs push to double job opportunities for Bahrainis

TDT | Manama

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A proposal to double job opportunities for Bahrainis by capitalising on new economic and investment projects is set to dominate parliamentary discussions on Tuesday.

The initiative aims to guide university graduates into private sector roles, align education with market needs, and expand employment options for citizens.

Proposed by MPs Hassan Ebrahim Hassan, Dr Hesham Ahmed Al Ashiri, Dr Ali Majid Al Nuaimi, First Deputy Speaker Abdulnabi Salman, and Hassan Bu Khumas, the plan seeks to leverage Bahrain’s real estate and investment opportunities, addressing the demands of large-scale development projects underway across the country.

The proposal references Bahrain’s constitution, particularly Article 13, which asserts that work is a duty for every citizen, rooted in dignity and public good. Bahrain’s push to attract investors has already been yielding positive results, strengthening the economy and creating more job opportunities for citizens, according to the explanatory memorandum.

The General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions has expressed support for the plan, proposing measures such as setting Bahrainisation quotas for different sectors, prioritising Bahrainis for job placements, reserving top positions for locals, and imposing penalties on companies that fail to meet these targets.

Additionally, the MPs are urging universities to collaborate with government authorities to better equip graduates for the private sector, ensuring they possess the skills needed to fill available roles.

The proposal also calls on government ministries to prioritise the hiring of more citizens, particularly young Bahrainis, as part of their broader workforce strategies. Job creation efforts are expected to be supported by developments in sectors such as healthcare, education, and large-scale infrastructure projects.