Shura Council Continues Discussion on Labour Market and Employment Stability

Shura Council Stresses Proactive Planning to Address Labour Market Challenges

Muscat: The Shura Council continued today, for the second consecutive day, its discussion of the statement delivered by Dr. Mahad bin Said Ba’owain, Minister of Labour, which addressed a number of issues related to the labour market, employment stability, and the development of the vocational training system.

The discussion took place during the eighth ordinary session of the third annual sitting (2025/2026) of the Council.

Members of the Council stressed the importance of shifting from short-term solutions to labour market challenges toward proactive, strategic policies that take into account economic and technological transformations. They emphasized the need to ensure the sustainability of employment opportunities for citizens, particularly in the private sector, which is expected to absorb the largest share of the national workforce. Council members also highlighted the importance of giving employment priority to social security beneficiaries and low-income individuals.

The members noted that vocational training represents a key strategic pathway for addressing employment challenges, especially in line with national efforts to expand private-sector job opportunities. They pointed out that current enrollment levels in vocational training programs remain below labour market needs, particularly in technical, technological, and craft-related sectors.

During the session, members discussed the effectiveness of the Ministry of Labour’s programmes in absorbing job seekers and mitigating the effects of layoffs. They called for the continuous development of these programmes to keep pace with rapid labour market changes, ensuring sustainable economic and social outcomes.

The Council further stressed the importance of aligning higher education outputs with labour market requirements through enhanced coordination between the Ministry of Labour, educational institutions, and relevant entities. Members underscored the need for clear mechanisms to regularly update academic specializations and programmes in line with current and future market demands, as well as the Ministry’s role in anticipating emerging professions and preparing future generations accordingly.

The session was chaired by Khalid bin Hilal Al Ma’awali, Chairman of the Shura Council.