Tamkeen’s new strategy is going to completely transform Bahrain’s future, here’s how

Tamkeen Chief Executive Dr. Ebrahim Mohammed Janahi said that the recommendations of Tamkeen’s 2018-2020 Strategy Consultation Forum will be integrated into Tamkeen’s Strategy.

He stressed that the recommendations come in line with Tamkeen’s keenness to involve stakeholders in the development of its Strategy and take their feedback into consideration.

Dr. Janahi explained that the recently held Forum, which was attended by more than 500 participants representing the different economic sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain, came up with a number of recommendations including stressing the importance of diversifying Tamkeen’s solutions to cater to different market needs.

Other recommendations included building more partnerships and collaborations with key market players, development of Innovation and Research and Development support solutions, publication of up-to-date market studies on sectors’ gaps and opportunities, and last, but not least, increasing advisory and mentorship services offered to individuals and institutions.

As Tamkeen outlines its strategy for 2018-2020, a number of its private sector partners expressed their confidence in its vision and reaffirmed their commitment to support Tamkeen in its efforts to develop Bahrain’s economy in line with the government’s Economic Vision 2030.

The new strategy, which was developed in conjunction with key stakeholders representing various private sector industries, focuses on developing the quality of Bahrain’s human capital so that the economy is well placed to harness the potential of the latest economic and technological developments across the world. The strategy remains committed to Tamkeen’s values of transparency, objectivity, partnership, and knowledge sharing.

Deep understanding of market needs

Productivity expert Dr. Akbar Jafari believes that Tamkeen’s strategy for the next three years demonstrates a deep understanding of market needs, particularly as it focuses on the long-term development of human capital through the introduction of a number of programs and initiatives.

“Tamkeen’s programs equip Bahraini citizens with the skills and tools they need in order to flourish in the job market, and position them as the employee of choice in the country,” he said.

“As for economic diversification, it is encouraging to see Tamkeen supporting the government’s overall strategy to diversify away from an oil-based and rent-based economy towards one which is based on productivity. The private sector supports Tamkeen in this vision, and looks forward to becoming a key contributor to the nation’s growth and prosperity,” he added.

Developing national competencies

Chairman of the Origen Center for Training and CEO of Origen Group, Ahmed Al Bina, stressed that Tamkeen’s strategic cooperation with leading institutions and training centers in the field of human resources development is paving the way for strong economic growth.

“Within just a decade (2007 – 2017), Tamkeen has done a remarkable job in reducing the gap in the labor market, especially technical and specialized skills, which are becoming more and more valuable in this economic environment,” he said.

“Tamkeen has worked closely with training institutes in the Kingdom as well as the Ministry of Labor and Social Development to achieve Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and Tamkeen’s vision of making the Bahraini citizen the first choice of employers. Today, Bahraini citizens have access to internationally-accredited training programs which help them improve their employability and market value,” he added.

Turning beneficiaries and customers into partners

President of Bahrain Technology Companies Society (BTECH) Ubaidly Al-Ubaidly stressed the importance of private sector firms working with Tamkeen as it develops its strategy.

“Tamkeen is a dynamic organization which encourages and invites participation from the private sector as it develops its strategy. As the private sector, we have a responsibility to participate in these discussions by sharing our views, challenges, and vision, so that we can ensure that the policies and practices implemented produce maximum positive effects for the economy,” he said.

“Tamkeen does not believe in quick fixes that work overnight, but rather takes a long-term approach to turn beneficiaries and customers into partners who will share not just the responsibilities of developing the economy but also the successful results produced,” he added.

Leading innovation and entrepreneurship

“With the launch of its fourth three-year strategy, Tamkeen has reached maturity,” observed CEO of Gulf Business Group Ahmed Al Hujairi. “Today we see Tamkeen programs working in perfect harmony, and they continue to evolve and grow ever more effective. More Bahrainis than ever are achieving professional certification and acquiring the skills necessary to excel in their careers and businesses. We are also leading the way in innovation and entrepreneurship, which will produce important returns in the long run.”

“I believe that the new strategy has touched on very important points, and we look forward to its effective implementation, which will support Tamkeen’s beneficiaries as well as the national economy,” he added.

Constant communication with stakeholders

Training and management development expert Ghalib Al Oreibi praised Tamkeen for its continuous efforts to reach out to stakeholders in various segments of society, whether they are students, graduates, job seekers, entrepreneurs, or employers.

“Tamkeen has spared no effort in making its services accessible to its beneficiaries, through its online portal, physical branches, ongoing visits to institutions, and its social networking sites,” he commented.

“This constant dialogue means that Tamkeen as an institution is always in touch with its stakeholders’ needs and expectations, and constantly works to deliver the highest quality services which truly benefit the economy.”

For a detailed overview of Tamkeen’s 2018-202 Forum read here.

This is also available in Arabic if you'd like.