Construction and engineering sector workshop highlights reform priorities
Discussions revolved around adopting a modern employment approach aligned with future aspirations, enhancing Omanisation and improving the efficiency of the national workforce. These efforts aim to strengthen the sector's competitive edge and support sustainable growth.
The workshop also covered the creation of a clear employment framework for the sector and the identification of potential replacement opportunities, with special emphasis on prioritised national activities and professions. Mechanisms for calculating appropriate Omanisation rates were reviewed, alongside proposed incentives to help companies maintain stability and sustainably increase local employment.
Other topics included challenges associated with direct employment and the exploration of alternatives such as 'parallel employment'. This concept involves leveraging modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, to optimise operations, reduce costs and raise workplace health and safety standards. There was also a proposal to integrate new professions into the self-employment programme, aimed at expanding job opportunities for Omanis and opening new pathways for entrepreneurship in construction and engineering services.
The session featured an analytical presentation containing statistical data on employment trends in the construction and engineering consulting sector. It detailed economic activity classifications and the sector's contribution to GDP.
The event was attended by Dr Saleh bin Said Masan, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry, as well as members of the Reference Committee comprising representatives from relevant public and private entities. — ONA
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