Trainees receive monthly stipends of BD 200 from Tamkeen, with some employers adding BD 50 to BD 300 in support

TDT | Manama

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More than 1,500 trainees from the government’s Foras training programme have secured steady jobs, primarily in sales, industry, and healthcare. Acting Labour Minister Yousuf Khalaf confirmed this in a written response to Parliament, following a question by MP Ahmed Al Salloom. The figure represents nearly half of all participants.

Under the programme, trainees receive a monthly stipend of BD 200 through the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) for six to twelve months, depending on the training arrangement. Some employers offer additional support, contrib - uting between BD 50 and BD 300 to enhance the trainees ’ earnings and promote long-term hiring.

Since the start of the current legislative term, 4,311 individuals have joined Foras — 1,619 in 2023 and 2,692 in 2024. Of these, 1,529 have transitioned into full-time employment. Employment data for 2024 is still being compiled, as many trainees are completing their placements.

Launched to provide jobseekers with practical experience, Foras aligns its training opportunities with employer needs. Participants have found placements in various sectors, including personal services, automotive repair, healthcare, construction, education, and technical fields.

The ministry reported that 2023 trainees achieved a 53 per cent employment rate, while 2024’s rate stands at just under 42 per cent so far. Sector-wise, 18 per cent of those employed went into sales, 13 per cent each into industry and services, and 10 per cent into healthcare. Others took roles in education, finance, real estate, administration, IT, tourism, and transport.

Regarding educational backgrounds, most 2024 trainees (1,757) held university degrees, 827 completed secondary school or lower, and 108 held diplomas. Among degree holders, men comprised 63 per cent. In contrast, women made up the majority in the lower educational categories. These trends mirrored those seen in 2023.

Once trainees complete their programme, wages and employment terms are agreed upon between the employee and employer, with agreements registered with the Social Insurance Authority. The ministry continues to provide support through the unemployment insurance system for eligible trainees.

Future expansion of Foras will depend on its performance, labour market demands, and Tamkeen’s funding strategy. The ministry aims to increase opportunities in high-demand sectors and is encouraging employers to offer additional payments to enhance placement outcomes.

While the programme has seen strong participation, the ministry acknowledged minor challenges, mainly regarding trainee retention. These issues are being addressed in collaboration with Tamkeen, the private sector, and the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

There have been no significant obstacles in the programme’s implementation. The ministry pledged ongoing cooperation with Parliament to support Bahraini employment efforts, with updated job figures for the current trainees to be released next year.