26-05-2025
New Oman national strategy to boost workforce skills
Muscat – Ministry of Labour launched the National Strategy for Occupational Standards on Monday, aimed at improving workforce skills, aligning training with labour market needs and improving professional practices in Oman.
The strategy was unveiled under the patronage of H E Dr Mahad bin Saeed Ba'awin, Minister of Labour. It seeks to build an integrated professional system that supports productivity and meets the requirements of a dynamic labour market as part of the sultanate's broader economic development goals.
H E Sayyid Salim bin Muslim al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Human Resources Development, said the ministry developed the strategy in collaboration with public and private stakeholders in alignment with national priorities. H E Sayyid Salim bin Muslim al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Human Resources Development
'Professional standards are the foundation for enhancing workforce quality across sectors, improving training outcomes and boosting productivity,' he said. 'Establishment of sector-specific skills units is key to ensuring the strategy addresses each industry's needs.'
He also highlighted the progress made in implementing a professional licence card system under the broader National Professional Accreditation System. The system aims to verify individuals' competencies and ensure professional practices meet required standards.
'This system represents a critical step towards labour market governance, reinforcing the quality of professional practices and boosting employer and societal confidence in national talent,' he added.
Zaher bin Abdullah al Sheikh, Project Director of the strategy, said, 'The ministry is working to develop and implement occupational standards across all sectors to promote quality, productivity and professional excellence. We are ready to provide technical and logistical support to ensure effective implementation.'
