What do you think is the key to creating new jobs in Oman? - Is it embracing new technologies? - Or enhancing digital infrastructure? - Maybe it is by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs)? - Is it by just investing in education and skills development? Or something else entirely? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below. Let's start a meaningful conversation about the opportunities and strategies that can drive job creation in our country. Your insights could shape my discussion at the Oman Job Fair 2024 !#OmanJobFair2024 #EmploymentInOman #JobCreation #FutureOfWork #SMEs #OmanEconomy #Innovation #DigitalTransformation #Entrepreneurship #OmanVision2040"
If the goal is to create new jobs, particularly to the youths of oman, embracing new technologies or enhancing digital infrastructure may be helpful but not the right solutions. It’s seen globally that technology and artificial intelligence can lead to automation which can reduce the need for manpower. Focus should be more on supporting SMEs and investing in education as well as skill development. It’s important to create more entrepreneurs in the country who will be independent and not dependent on government jobs or looking for jobs. Unfortunately SME financing is still a dream in Oman as banks are more focussed on profits than developing the SME sector which is always prone to failures and NPAs. It should not be the just responsibility of the government to lift the SME sector. The banks and large private sector corporates have to take that initiative by identifying areas and sectors where SMEs can work along with the large corporates and government in the country’s development. Of course there are risks in financial support to the SMEs, but that can be always managed. These are my personal thoughts looking back at the 40 years of my banking experience in Oman which may come to an end soon.
1. Definitely investing in Education & skill development, in the sense that we broaden the mindset & skills of people. All ages if possible! 2. Work on developing the regions, in terms of enhancing infrastructure & creating oppotunities that allign with the labor market there. 3. Diversify & innovate! We need new industries and technologies, and we need people to realize a job is not just in an office; there are a number of paying jobs which -with proper due diligence & upskilling- can be done online from anywhere.
eCommerce is a powerful engine for economic growth, as seen in Morocco. A successful eCommerce business creates demand across various sectors. As it scales, it requires call centers, fulfillment, packaging, shipping, design, videography, photography, and advertising services. This generates numerous opportunities and jobs in the economy.
1- Create a demand and market (the role of govt. and regulators) 2- Restrict IT jobs to Omanies only (one decision and brave decision by the govt.) 3- Stop importing technologies from India and UAE 4- Bring the main companies direct to Oman (later stage) , e.g. Oracle and MS (what we have are branches for Dubai) 5- Promote IT Omanies skills for emerging technologies (the role of technology hubs and universities)
Creating new jobs in Oman requires a holistic approach. As a strong, independent working mom, I believe we need to embrace new technologies, enhance digital infrastructure, support SMEs, and invest in education and skills development. Despite numerous programs, the HR landscape remains challenging, with issues like compliance gaps, operational inefficiencies, ethical risks, and inconsistent practices. Let’s not sugar coat the true facts. From an audit perspective, we need to: 1. Enhance practical training to ensure compliance. 2. Foster ethical behavior. 3. Standardize HR practices. 4. Improve audit readiness. 5. Empower leaders responsibly. 6. Remove wasta to ensure meritocracy. Moawiya Al Rawas Addressing these challenges is essential for achieving Oman Vision 2040 and building a competitive, innovative workforce.
As someone who has been on all sides of the discussion, I see one critical yet seldomly discussed element is the need for a mindset shift among both individuals and organizations. Embracing a culture of innovation, risk taking and lifelong learning is vital. Encouraging entrepreneurial thinking, adaptability and resilience empowers individuals to create their own opportunities and contribute to a more dynamic job market
It is a mix of all the above but it starts with education and building the right set of competences that are relevant to the AI age. It is not only about creating jobs but creating qualitative jobs that contribute to the fulfillment of employees and the success of the country.
Re-imagining the educational ecosystem for cycle 2 and cycle 3. Without going to the root, any other solution is either not sustainable, expensive, or both.
CEO & Founding Partner at iON L.L.C. | Expert in Digital Transformation & E-Payment Solutions | Technology Innovator
5moI will reference those names with strong thought in my upcoming presentation about job creation in Oman.