Supported by Tamkeen, Labour Ministry continues efforts to boost employment rates

Manama, The Ministry of Labour has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating Bahraini job seekers into the private sector by implementing support initiatives and capitalising on opportunities. These efforts, in coordination with relevant stakeholders, have increased employment rates and included more qualified national professionals across diverse specialties, a statement by the ministry said. As of the end of August, the ministry's database recorded 16,726 job seekers, a figure consistent with other national government databases. These numbers are calculated automatically according to internationally recognised standards, aligning with the International Labour Organisation's definitions. The ministry highlighted the crucial role of its partnership with the Labour Fund "Tamkeen" in enhancing the training, employment, and development of national competencies. This collaboration has been instrumental in creating a workforce equipped with the skills needed to succeed and ensuring job stability. Since Novem ber 2023, "Tamkeen" has launched programmes aimed at supporting 50,000 Bahrainis annually. These initiatives have significantly boosted employment, making Bahrainis the preferred choice in the job market. The programmes have also contributed to increasing wages for Bahrainis, improved their employment prospects, and provided specialised training to help them advance into leadership and executive roles. Additionally, the initiatives have supported the growth of private sector businesses, further consolidating the sector as a key driver of Bahrain's economic growth. The ministry emphasised the importance of national efforts in employment and training, with all relevant parties working together to develop and implement effective policies that prepare national workers for suitable job opportunities. A comprehensive online platform has been launched by the ministry to streamline access to employment, training, and unemployment insurance services. This platform connects job seekers and employers to a unified da tabase, providing detailed information on available opportunities. It is also linked with various government entities to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Job seekers are encouraged to register on the ministry's online platform. The services and benefits on the platform include extending unemployment benefit eligibility from six to nine months annually, increasing the monthly allowance to BD 200 for university graduates and BD 150 for non-graduates, and increasing the compensation to BD 1,000 for those who lose their jobs due to circumstances beyond their control. These measures are designed to attract and motivate job seekers to register and to maintain accurate national data that is calculated through the platform and published accordingly. The ministry also confirmed that, in collaboration with the Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) and other relevant entities, that it is expanding its online services and ensuring timely processing of citizen requests, particularly for employment and training. These services, including those related to unemployment insurance, are now fully accessible online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the ministry. The ministry offers access to its databases for stakeholders and individuals interested. It also underscored the national responsibility of all parties in the labour market to support government initiatives, contributing to the stability of both the labour market and the national economy. Source: Bahrain News Agency