27,000 Bahrainis hired in 2024

TDT | Manama

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Over 27,000 Bahrainis found jobs in 2024, including 8,631 first-time hires, Acting Labour Minister, His Excellency Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf, revealed in Parliament yesterday.

He outlined the government’s ongoing work to prioritise employment for Bahrainis, supported by a BD200 million programme in partnership with Tamkeen.

The minister emphasised that addressing unemployment is a shared effort between the government and Parliament, adding that close collaboration would help improve job opportunities and outcomes for job seekers.

The numbers, he stressed, are thoroughly verified and recorded with the Social Insurance Organisation, ensuring full transparency.

Khalaf pointed out that Bahrain’s labour market must absorb around 10,000 new entrants each year, including high school graduates and university degree holders, which presents a steady challenge.

Team effort

He described the ministry’s relationship with Tamkeen as a team effort, with each playing a crucial role in preparing job seekers and bridging skill gaps.

The BD200 million allocation, authorised under Decree-Law No. 20 of 2023, forms a cornerstone of efforts to equip Bahrainis for the job market.

Training programmes and work placed evelopment schemes are key components of this strategy, aiming to prepare individuals for long-term employment rather than relying on temporary benefits.

Khalaf also addressed the rules governing unemployment benefits. If eligibility requirements are no longer met, payments are stopped, but job seekers remain on ministry records and continue to access employment and training services.

He reiterated that the ministry operates within the boundaries of the law but is open to reviewing procedures where necessary.

He warned that unemployment benefits should not become a reason for individuals to delay their job search. The ministry’s focus, he said, is on finding real opportunities for Bahrainis rather than merely providing financial assistance.

Balance support

He added that current systems are being studied to ensure they balance support for job seekers with the need to encourage active participation in the labour market.

Concluding his address, the minister said the ministry is determined to close skill gaps and prioritise Bahraini nationals for available roles.

He confirmed that collaboration with Tamkeen and private employment centres remains central to efforts to match job seekers with the demands of the labour market.