News
MLSD Minister chaired the meeting of senior management of planning and follow-up in the ministry
14-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, chaired a meeting of the Ministry’s Senior Management for Planning and Follow‑up, with executive officials from all affiliated sectors, at his office in the Ministry’s headquarters. The meeting reviewed the progress of labour and social projects and assessed this year’s achievements in delivering comprehensive services to targeted segments of society—especially programmes to professionally qualify citizens for the labour market, create more quality employment opportunities, enhance development initiatives, strengthen the social protection system, and empower the Bahraini family economically and socially through support for family development projects. In this context, Humaidan underscored the importance of intensifying efforts to realise the esteemed Government’s aspirations to employ job seekers and raise living standards for Bahraini individuals and families within an integrated framework of Government support and social care. He affirmed that the Ministry continues to launch and implement qualitative initiatives to integrate Bahraini youth into private‑sector establishments, stressing the need to innovate further ideas and practical visions to sustain project momentum and safeguard the gains achieved in labour and social care. His Excellency highlighted that, in the coming period, the Ministry will diversify its creative initiatives and reinforce bridges of cooperation with relevant governmental and private entities to deliver tangible results, given the breadth and significance of the Ministry’s service mandate. He emphasised that the success of development projects reflects positively on social security and family cohesion—by maintaining unemployment within safe and reassuring limits—improving the production environment in the labour market, supporting ambitious projects for Bahraini youth to realise their professional aspirations, and advancing charitable and voluntary work through stronger partnerships with NGOs and Institutions of civil society.
Humaidan confirms support for the integration of "sickler people" into the labor market
13-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met at the Ministry with the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Society for Sickle Cell Disease, Mr Zakaria Ibrahim Al Kadhim. The meeting reviewed the Society’s programmes serving patients with sickle cell disease, particularly the facilities provided by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to integrate this group into private‑sector establishments and address their needs. In this context, Al Kadhim commended the Ministry’s efforts to enhance services for this segment of the labour market—most notably the implementation of maximum working hours for certain categories of workers, including those with sickle cell disease—and expressed appreciation for His Excellency’s patronage of a number of the Society’s events. Humaidan praised the Society’s role and underscored the importance of community partnerships among all relevant stakeholders to extend appropriate facilities to people living with sickle cell disease. He affirmed the Ministry’s keenness, in cooperation with the private sector, to employ members of this group, noting that the condition does not constitute an obstacle to productivity and creativity at the workplace. He looked forward to continued cooperation with the Society to further improve the services provided to sickle cell patients in the labour market.
Assistant Undersecretary for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation: 43 Beneficiaries of the Willingness Training Program to Obtain a Driver's License
12-10-2019
The Assistant Undersecretary for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, Shaikha Aisha bint Ali Al Khalifa, announced that 43 persons with disabilities (people of determination) have so far benefited from the Ministry’s driving licence training programme, implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior under a memorandum of understanding to enable eligible participants to obtain a private driving licence. Key results to date • Budget covered by MLSD: BHD 4,830 across five cohorts; trainees do not bear any fees. • Training start: March 2019. • Graduates: 30 participants (physical and hearing disabilities, and cerebral palsy). • Training delivered: 690 hours. • In training now: 13 beneficiaries (physical, hearing, intellectual and cerebral palsy). She confirmed that the Memorandum of Understanding concluded between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Ministry of Interior is grounded in Law No. 74 of 2006 on the Care, Rehabilitation and Employment of Persons with Disabilities and Law No. 23 of 2014 promulgating the Traffic Law. The MoU strengthens cooperation and coordination with governmental and civil society sectors to deliver qualitative change in the lives of persons with disabilities, provide the necessary protection, and develop practical programmes for their care and rehabilitation—enabling them to contribute to nation building and to participate in social development alongside all sectors and groups of society. Training programme timetable • Duration: three weeks. • Minimum of 22 and maximum of 30 training hours, according to the trainee’s needs. • Two hours per day, divided between theoretical and practical training at the Driving Education Department. • If the trainee does not pass the first examination, additional hours may be added up to a maximum of 8. Eligibility criteria The Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Rehabilitation clarified that to benefit from the training programme to obtain a driving licence, the applicant must: • Hold Bahraini nationality; • Be 18 years of age or older; • Possess a disability card issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development; and • Appear before a medical committee comprising representatives of the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, which determines the type of disability and whether the beneficiary should train with a private or public trainer. Training commences immediately upon the committee’s approval.
Comment of the Ministry of Labor and Social Development on the news: More than 800 unemployed engineering and computer graduates
10-10-2019
Clarification on engineering and ICT graduate unemployment figures Commenting on a local‑press article titled “More than 800 unemployed engineering and computer science graduates,” attributed to His Excellency Ibrahim Al‑Nufaie, Member of the Council of Representatives and Chairman of the Parliamentary Inquiry Committee on the Bahrainisation of jobs in the public and private sectors, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development confirms that the matter was presented outside the context of remarks made by His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, at a post–Government Forum press conference. The question addressed to Humaidan was: Which current and future specialisations offer jobs in the labour market, and which university majors should youth consider given private‑sector demand? In response, he explained that engineering across its disciplines—alongside technology, information systems and digital commerce—is currently in demand and expected to remain so. Key facts provided by the Ministry • Engineers do not constitute 25% of unemployed job seekers. The share of unemployed engineering graduates is about 7% of total registered job seekers. • The average duration of unemployment for engineering degree holders is no more than six months from the date of registration with the Ministry. • There are about 700 engineering job seekers who are new graduates and have only recently entered the labour market; a small subset face integration challenges—most of them women—primarily due to private sector working hours. • Given major national projects underway and planned—in construction and infrastructure, engineering and the information and communications sector—demand for these specialisations is rising. This dynamic is nevertheless subject to normal labour market flows of entry and exit and does not imply immediate job placement for every graduate. • In recent years, the Ministry has placed the majority of registered engineering and information systems graduates, over 6,000 job seekers, into suitable roles. The Ministry also clarifies that, while it provides vocational guidance and counselling to help young people choose labour‑market‑relevant majors, it does not control the educational output of private colleges and institutes, nor can it compel students to select particular fields. To bridge any skills gaps, the Ministry enrols graduates of these majors in targeted training courses to equip them with competencies required by private‑sector employers, thereby facilitating faster integration into employment.
Capital Center for Bahraini Hand Products is one of the pioneering and cultural projects in Bahrain
10-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, and His Excellency Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate, conducted a joint visit to the Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products in Karbabad. The visit came in response to the Governor’s initiative to review the achievements of Bahraini productive families, with the complex serving as one of the centres supporting the National Project for Family Development. During the visit, both sides were briefed on key support services for micro‑productive family projects, as well as the dedicated spaces within the complex for showcasing and marketing family‑made products. They also reviewed the specialised programmes offered by the development and rehabilitation centres housed at the complex, which strengthen production and marketing capabilities, improve quality, and help beneficiaries manage their private projects. The delegation heard success stories arising from these programmes and encouraged beneficiaries to continue on their path of success and excellence. Humaidan affirmed that the Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products is one of Bahrain’s pioneering projects for the economic empowerment of individuals and families, providing an enabling environment and permanent outlets to promote their products. He noted that the number of Bahraini productive families has exceeded 650 families, and that legal cover has been provided through the Khatwa programme for home projects, in line with the esteemed Government’s interest in productive Bahraini families. In this regard, the Council of Ministers issued Resolution No. (39) of 2010 regulating the practising of productive activity from home (productive home). The resolution established the Productive Home Record, in which all data related to home‑based productive activity are recorded, including the identity of the owner and the type of activity practised. Humaidan explained that the Khatwa programme for home projects opens avenues for youth, the unemployed, and Bahraini women seeking economic empowerment and increased family income. It also offers a flexible work option for senior citizens and retirees. The programme develops productive families—especially lower‑income households—by supporting crafts, home industries, and traditional and heritage products, thereby raising production quality and boosting competitiveness in local and global markets. For his part, Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa affirmed that productive‑family centres play a significant role in encouraging artistic investment and reflect the development of Bahrain’s experience in traditional professions—among the most effective means of cultivating human potential, independent thinking, contemplation, and precision. He also highlighted the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s role in positioning Manama as a prominent hub for productive families, noting the centre’s cultural mission to preserve the Kingdom’s human heritage and praising the Ministry’s support for practitioners of traditional crafts through specialised centres. The Capital Mall project contributes to establishing the Kingdom of Bahrain as a centre for productive families and advanced traditional industries, strengthening society through the promotion of work and production. It also increases the number of productive families, spreads the concept of self‑employment, and nurtures entrepreneurship through specialised courses, while supporting and safeguarding traditional industries. The mall showcases and markets the products of more than 140 home‑based families and includes a popular café serving traditional foods at competitive prices, managed by a productive Bahraini family. Total sales in 2018 reached 63,662 Bahraini dinars, and no operating or rental fees are charged to beneficiary families. The Capital Mall for Bahraini handmade products has become a distinctive cultural and tourist landmark, attracting prominent visitors and tourists as well as citizens and residents. Visitors consistently express admiration for Bahrain’s experience in supporting productive families and for Bahrainis’ success in preserving traditional industries in a modern, consumer‑friendly style that delights all who visit.
Humaidan meets the Vice President of the Arab Organization for Sign Language Interpreters
09-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with the Vice President of the Arab Organisation for Sign Language Interpreters from the sisterly State of Kuwait, Dr Mohammed Al Ramzi, in the presence of the President of the Bahraini Society for the Deaf, Mrs Salma Ahmed Al Asfoor, and a number of members of the Society’s Board of Directors. The meeting coincided with the organisation of the Professional Translation Standards Course for Sign Language Interpreters “Sila”, held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 4 to 7 October 2019. During the meeting, participants reviewed the course’s principal outcomes and objectives, notably the training and qualification of professional interpreters to enable them to work effectively with people with hearing disabilities. Joint coordination was also undertaken to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Society and the Organisation to cooperate in enhancing the efficiency of sign language interpreters in the Kingdom. Discussions further covered the latest technological developments and modern devices used by people with hearing disabilities. In this context, Humaidan stressed the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s growing attention to caring for people with disabilities and providing comprehensive education and care services. He reviewed national efforts to support people with hearing disabilities, emphasising that effective communication is a foundational element of rehabilitation services throughout enrolment in care centres, foremost among them the Shaikhan Centre for Comprehensive Speech. He also referred to the provision of hearing prosthetic devices, free driver training, and a range of services delivered in cooperation with the private sector, including discounts on specified services for holders of the disability card issued by the Ministry for all people with disabilities. He noted that such specialised training courses will enhance the quality of services provided to this group. For his part, Al Ramzi praised the services provided by the Kingdom of Bahrain to persons with disabilities, noting that the “Sila” course on professional translation standards for sign language interpreters reflects the official and societal interest in supporting people with disabilities. He added that strengthening communication skills facilitates interaction and integration into society for people with hearing disabilities.
In a statement by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.. All training courses are free of charge and there are no fees if they are not successfully passed
07-10-2019
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has issued a clarification regarding reports in some local newspapers and on social media alleging that a fee of 2,500 Bahraini dinars is imposed on trainees seeking employment if they do not successfully complete their training courses. All training programmes offered by the Ministry to job seekers are free of charge. A trainee will not bear any fees or expenses at any stage of a training course, including in cases of non‑completion or failure to pass. This policy has been clearly communicated to all training institutes receiving job seekers referred by the Ministry, and any concerns raised have been addressed. This forms part of the Ministry’s strategy to equip citizens with professional skills that expedite their integration into private‑sector establishments and the labour market. With reference to reports quoting female job seekers about a course in English, computer studies, and workplace ethics, the Ministry confirms that this course was designed in line with labour-market needs as part of a comprehensive skills-development programme. It is intensive, morning‑only and of three months’ duration. The Ministry underscores the importance of full commitment by trainees to maximise benefit. A dedicated team has been formed to follow up graduates of this and other programmes and to support their placement in suitable private‑sector jobs. Through its training and qualification initiatives, the Ministry seeks to move trainees into decent jobs with generous wages, rather than prolonged reliance on unemployment benefits, thereby supporting citizens’ living standards and social stability. All participants in the above course will receive an unemployment benefit of 200 dinars per month throughout the training period, without the need for monthly reporting to the Ministry. The majority have consented to enrol. Selection prioritised job seekers with longer unemployment durations to allow them to refresh and upgrade skills in line with market needs. Transport has been provided across all regions of the Kingdom to facilitate and encourage attendance. The Ministry recognises that some graduates in social sciences, humanities and other disciplines may face fewer vacancies in the private sector. In response, the Ministry assumes its responsibility to this segment by developing their personal skills and strengthening their professional capabilities through free, accredited vocational courses aligned with employer needs—thereby enhancing their prospects of securing private‑sector employment in fields closely related to their academic backgrounds.
During his sponsorship of the "Second International Conference for Excellence in Social Work" .. Humaidan stresses the importance of developing volunteer work towards professionalism in the service of
06-10-2019
Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, the Second International Conference on Excellence in Social and Voluntary Work convened from 5 to 7 October under the theme “Social Work: Measuring Impact and Achieving Sustainability.” Organised by the Bahrain Voluntary Work Society in cooperation with the Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz Award for Excellence in Social Work Foundation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the conference gathered NGOs and delegates from the Kingdom of Bahrain, GCC states, and a number of Arab and European countries. Attendees included His Highness Prince Saud bin Fahad bin Saud Al Kabeer, Member of the Board of Trustees and Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Foundation; His Highness Prince Salman bin Mohammed bin Faisal Al Saud, Member of the Board of Trustees and Member of the Executive Committee; Dr Fahd bin Hamad Al Maghlouth, Secretary‑General of the Foundation; and Mr Abdulaziz Rashid Al Sanadi, Chairman of the Bahrain Voluntary Work Society. The programme brought together a distinguished group of specialists and academics in social work to enrich the volunteer experience, enhance development mechanisms, and professionalise practice. Through specialised workshops, participants examined how to measure the impact of social and development programmes implemented by civil society organisations and how to translate evidence into sustainable outcomes for communities. In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development, Khalid Abdulrahman Ishaq Al Kooheji, Humaidan underscored the strategic importance of volunteer work in advancing society. He noted that Bahrain’s hosting of this international forum reflects the Arab world’s wealth of human potential capable of elevating civil social work, and welcomed the Foundation’s partnership as a continuation of the values championed by Her Highness Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz—may God have mercy on her—in embedding a culture of social, charitable, humanitarian and volunteer work. Humaidan hailed the theme of this year’s conference for its importance in assessing the impact of volunteer efforts on society and development. Such assessment enables NGOs to formulate their programmes accordingly, advancing volunteer work towards greater professionalism in execution. He also encouraged supporters of social responsibility programmes to fund NGO programmes in the social field. In this context, he highlighted the Kingdom of Bahrain’s experience with the Financial Grants Programme for NGOs. In 2006, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development adopted a new approach to financial grants, shifting from simple subsidies and assistance to targeted support for development projects that deliver real, tangible contributions to societal progress. These projects are evaluated by a specialised academic jury and financed through the Civil Social Work Fund, established within the framework of community partnership with the private sector. For his part, Dr Fahd bin Hamad Al Maghlouth emphasised that this second edition of the conference seeks to achieve a qualitative shift in social services, noting the determination to continue the path of social work to realise the Sustainable Development Goals. Mr Abdulaziz Rashid Al Sanadi stated that the Bahrain Voluntary Work Society is keen to diversify its activities, programmes and events to contribute to societal advancement, expressing appreciation to the Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz Award for Excellence in Social Work Foundation for its support, partnership and sponsorship in organising the conference. Al Sanadi also thanked His Excellency, the Minister of Labour and Social Development, for his patronage. During the conference, the deputy sponsor, Mr Khalid Abdulrahman Ishaq Al Kooheji, toured the accompanying exhibition, which showcased distinguished civil society organisations in social and volunteer work from Bahrain and other Gulf and Arab countries. He also honoured the conference speakers.
Humaidan stresses keenness on close cooperation with the United Nations in the labor and development fields
05-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with the UN Resident Coordinator in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Mr Amin El Sharkawi, to discuss enhancing cooperation between the Ministry and the United Nations on implementing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals related to labour and development, in line with the Kingdom’s commitment to embed these goals within the Government’s work programme. Humaidan affirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s keenness to deepen and advance cooperation with the United Nations and its agencies across a broad range of areas, particularly the labour and community sectors. He noted the distinguished quality of UN‑supported programmes and projects that back national efforts to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. For his part, Al Sharkawi underscored the importance of close cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and several UN organisations, including the International Labour Organization. He highlighted that partnership around Goal 8, “Decent Work and Economic Growth,” was among the key topics discussed at the recent meetings of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, in which the Kingdom of Bahrain participated.
Humaidan discusses with PM Al-Dimistani strengthening cooperation in the labor and development fields
04-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met at his office with His Excellency Member of the Council of Representatives, Mr Ahmed Yousef Al Damistani, to discuss strengthening cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities, the Ministry’s ongoing projects and initiatives, and ways to meet citizens’ needs through its various services. During the meeting, Humaidan reviewed the latest developments in employment programmes for job seekers across specialities in private‑sector establishments. He affirmed that the Ministry continues to launch initiatives that accelerate the integration of national cadres into attractive sectors of the labour market. He also highlighted the diverse services delivered through the Ministry’s sub‑centres in all governorates of the Kingdom of Bahrain to reinforce social protection and serve all segments of society—particularly senior citizens, persons with disabilities—and to support the development of productive families. For his part, MP Al Damistani commended the Ministry’s efforts in implementing the Government’s policy to ensure a decent standard of living for citizens and to provide the best services, including quality employment opportunities and enhanced social protection for all segments of society.
In preparation for issuing a decision to regulate licenses, the Ministry of Labor and Social Development holds a consultative meeting with the authorities concerned with licensing heavy equipment oper
04-10-2019
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development held a consultative meeting with several companies and training institutes involved in heavy‑equipment operation and occupational health and safety training. The meeting forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing coordination with its partners in preparation for a ministerial decree regulating the issuance of heavy‑equipment operator licences in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Dr Esam Ismail Al Alawi, Director of Training and Manpower Development, emphasised that the session was an opportunity to solicit the views of partners specialising in heavy‑equipment operation—across private training institutions and operating companies—before issuing the decision, with a view to setting appropriate mechanisms and procedures that ensure optimal implementation and support sector development. Al Alawi outlined concepts and mechanisms related to heavy‑equipment operator licensing, noting that the Ministry of Labour and Social Development is the competent authority for granting licences to practise this profession. He added that anyone practising heavy‑equipment operation must obtain a licence from the Ministry after completing a training period, in order to enhance occupational safety and health at work sites. Al Alawi further indicated that a ministerial decision regulating the licensing process—together with advanced, specialised training programmes—will help provide qualified national manpower to operate all types of heavy‑equipment cranes. He stressed the importance of companies and institutions in this field, ensuring that workers engaged in heavy‑equipment lifting obtain a licence to practise the profession. He also underlined the need for workers to transition to a fully professional stage in these occupations, reflecting the development and qualitative shift in the labour market and positively impacting productivity levels. Representatives from Agora Institute and “Sarens Nass” reviewed their cooperation with the Ministry during the pilot phase to implement the decision, by training a number of job seekers to obtain a licence to practise heavy‑equipment lifting from the Ministry in cooperation with accredited international bodies. The programme aimed to qualify participants and equip them with precise skills that enhance their professional capabilities to fill these positions, which offer generous monthly wages ranging from 350 to 700 Bahraini dinars, with support from the Labour Fund (Tamkeen). All members of the first batch of trainees who passed the training programme were employed by Sarens Nass Company, enabled by their newly obtained licences to practise.
Within Bahrain's celebrations of the International Day for the Elderly.. Humaidan: Continuing to develop day care clubs and homes for eldarly
03-10-2019
Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the National Committee for the Elderly, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, the Ministry— in cooperation with the Committee—organised a ceremony to mark the International Day of Older Persons on Thursday at the Al Hekma Retired Society Hall. The event was attended by the President of the Supreme Council of Health, His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa; the Chairman of the Society’s Board of Directors; His Excellency the Governor of the Northern Governorate, Mr Ali bin Al Shaikh Abdulhussain Al Asfoor; a number of members of the Council of Representatives; members of day and permanent Parents’ Care Clubs and Homes; social figures and activists; and members of the National Committee for the Elderly. In his opening remarks, Humaidan affirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment—under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country’s great King, may God protect and preserve him—to the care of senior citizens and to ensuring they enjoy the dignified life they deserve, in recognition of their social and economic standing and their role in building and advancing the Kingdom. He highlighted the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s keenness to integrate senior citizens into society, celebrate their international day annually, provide them with the best services, and deliver comprehensive social, health, legal and rehabilitation programmes. He noted that Bahrain’s experience in establishing day care centres and clubs for senior citizens is pioneering and reflects the cultural renaissance the Kingdom is witnessing. The Minister underscored that the Ministry continues to develop appropriate rehabilitation programmes for senior citizens, to benefit from their expertise and capabilities, and to integrate them into society by expanding the number of parental care clubs and homes operated by civil society institutions within the framework of effective community partnership. He indicated that there are currently 14 social care homes and clubs, and that the Ministry looks forward to raising the number of day care centres and clubs to 20 across the Kingdom in the coming years, in order to provide integrated services and comprehensive care for this group. He emphasised the success of these social projects, particularly as the Ministry continues to receive additional requests from civil society institutions to open care homes as partners in sustainable social development. He called for further social and economic initiatives, and for partnerships between the government, private and civil sectors to enhance the integration of senior citizens into social development and to benefit from their capabilities. For his part, Dr Hassan Kamal, Vice Chairman of the National Committee for the Elderly and Chairman of the Executive Office for the Elderly, affirmed that the true Islamic faith urges attention to the care of senior citizens who have rendered valuable services to the Bahraini people. He noted that the International Day of Older Persons is recognised by the United Nations to promote health services, prevent disease and provide the necessary facilities to meet seniors’ needs, and he urged civil society organisations to offer support and cooperation to create a healthy and prosperous environment for this group. Speaking on behalf of the Al Hekma Retired Society, Ms Moza Al Mansouri praised the directives of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, to adopt the term “senior citizens,” thereby affirming their role in the country’s renaissance and continued national contribution. She also commended the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s financial and moral support for day‑care clubs and centres, and its dedication to ensuring a dignified life for senior citizens and empowering them to exercise their pioneering social role in Bahrain. During the ceremony, the Late His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Khalid Al Khalifa Centre was inaugurated at the Al Hekma Retired Society. The Centre provides care, health, social and recreational services to the society’s members, and issues the “Testahal” card for senior citizens, which offers discounts from various government and private entities. Individuals who have made tangible contributions to serving senior citizens were honoured, together with banking institutions that support government efforts in caring for them. The Muharraq Parents’ Care Home presented a theatrical performance, and an exhibition showcased photographs, works and handicrafts by members of the Parents’ Care Clubs and Homes.
Humaidan: Bahrain is rich in competencies that have contributed to the advancement of human resource development
02-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain abounds with national competencies that have advanced human‑resources development and qualification, and designed and implemented programmes to integrate citizens into the labour market. He noted that the honouring of Bahraini figures at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) level—among them Mr Abdul Ilah Ibrahim Al Qasimi, recently honoured as a pioneer in the GCC labour sector—reflects the Kingdom’s efforts and leadership in developing and qualifying its human resources, its advanced standing on human‑development indicators, and its strengthened position as a regional training centre. This came during Humaidan’s meeting with Mr Al Qasimi at the Ministry, on the occasion of his recognition as the leading Gulf figure in the labour sector for 2019. The honouring ceremony was held on the margins of the joint meeting of the GCC Ministers of Labour Committee and the Ministers of Social Affairs Committee in the sisterly Sultanate of Oman in September. On this occasion, the Minister praised Mr Al Qasimi’s recognition at this Gulf forum, appreciating his distinguished contributions in the leadership posts he held and the achievements realised for the Kingdom of Bahrain in developing and qualifying national human resources during his tenure as Assistant Undersecretary for Training Affairs at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development. In this context, he highlighted Mr Al Qasimi’s prominent role in advancing the Supreme Council for Vocational Training—responsible for setting training policies and developing national human resources—and in launching national initiatives to professionally qualify competencies and integrate them into the labour market, in addition to his previous service as Chief Executive of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen). For his part, Mr Al Qasimi expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Labour and Social Development for nominating him for this honour at the GCC Ministers of Labour meeting, noting that the accolade is a tribute to all institutions and individuals engaged in human‑resources development in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He also commended the support extended to individuals and private training institutions by the Ministry, as one of the active entities in qualifying national cadres for the labour market.
Humaidan meets the head of the mission of the International Organization for Migration in Bahrain
01-10-2019
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Mr Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met in his office with His Excellency Mr Mohammed Al Zarkani, Head of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Mission in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, issues related to the rights of migrant workers were discussed, and the Kingdom of Bahrain’s efforts to guarantee these rights and protect workers were reviewed. This comes in light of Bahrain’s advanced standing—Tier 1 for the second consecutive year—in the US Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report issued in June this year, as the only country in the Middle East and North Africa region to hold this position. The Kingdom continues to maintain its international standing in combating trafficking in persons, earned through the development of its legal and institutional frameworks that enhance the work environment and protect workers. On this occasion, Humaidan affirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to supporting and facilitating the work of the organisation’s office in the Kingdom, as well as close cooperation and continuous communication with all international organisations concerned with human and workers’ rights. He emphasised the endeavour to enhance constructive and ongoing cooperation with the International Organisation for Migration to uphold human rights—particularly the rights of migrant workers—in accordance with international labour standards. For his part, Al Zarkani expressed appreciation for the efforts made by the Kingdom of Bahrain to enhance protection for migrant workers and combat human trafficking, praising the roles of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development and the Labour Market Regulatory Authority in this area. He underscored the International Organisation for Migration’s interest in strengthening cooperation with all parties concerned with human rights in the Kingdom of Bahrain, as well as highlighting Bahrain’s successful experience in international forums. Through its office in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the International Organisation for Migration focuses on providing humanitarian and advisory services, in cooperation with GCC member states, on all matters related to migrant workers and facilitating their access to their rights. The International Organisation for Migration opened its office in 2018 under a cooperation agreement between Bahrain and the organisation, signed by His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). The IOM office is located in the Migrant Workers Protection Centre building affiliated with the LMRA.
The opening of the "General Employment Fair" tomorrow, Tuesday, at the Ministry of Labor and Social Development building
28-09-2019
تنفيذاً لتوجيهات مجلس الوزراء الموقر بشأن تنظيم معارض التوظيف لعرض فرص العمل المناسبة في منشآت القطاع الخاص للمواطنين، وفي إطار تكثيف جهود وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية لتسريع وتيرة إدماج الباحثين عن عمل في سوق العمل، تنظم الوزارة يوم غد الثلاثاء والأربعاء )24-25 سبتمبر الجاري)، "معرض التوظيف العام"، وذلك في بهو الوزارة، بمدينة زايد. وبهذه المناسبة، تدعو الوزارة الباحثين عن عمل، من مختلف التخصصات والمؤهلات الدراسية إلى حضور المعرض، الذي يفتتحه سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، وذلك للقاء مسئولي الموارد البشرية لدى الجهات المشاركة مباشرة، واستثمار فرص التوظيف في هذه المنشآت، إلى جانب ما يوفره بنك الشواغر بوزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية من فرص توظيف وتدريب، وذلك بدءاً من الساعة 8 صباحاً وحتى 1 ظهراً على مدى يومي الثلاثاء والأربعاء 24-25 سبتمبر الجاري.
Al-Dosari stresses the importance of vocational guidance and direction in introducing the requirements of the labor market
27-09-2019
افتتح وكيل وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، السيد صباح سالم الدوسري، اليوم الاثنين بمبنى الوزارة أعمال الورشة النقاشية حول الإرشاد والتوجيه المهني، الذي نظمته اللجنة الوطنية للإرشاد والتوجيه المهني بالتعاون مع السفارة البريطانية ووفد المؤسسة الاستشارية (Careers England)، وذلك بحضور عدد من المدعوين المعنيين. وتهدف الورشة التي شارك فيها أعضاء اللجنة الوطنية وعدد من ذوي الاختصاص إلى التعريف بالاستراتيجيات والسياسات المتعلقة بوضع الخطة الوطنية للإرشاد والتوجيه المهني في مملكة البحرين، والإشراف على خطط التنفيذ الخاصة بها ومتابعة تنفيذها بعد اعتمادها من قبل مجلس الوزراء الموقر، كما تناولت كذلك المبادرات والفعاليات والأنشطة والبرامج والخدمات الخاصة بالإرشاد والتوجيه المهني والتي تشرف اللجنة على إعدادها والترويج لها. وبهذه المناسبة، أكد الدوسري ان هذه الورشة النقاشية تأتي في إطار تبادل المعلومات والخبرات الدولية، من أجل استكمال عمل خطط اللجنة الهادفة للنهوض ببرامج الإرشاد والتوجيه المهني، وربطها بسياسات التعليم ومخرجاته واحتياجات سوق العمل، مشيراً إلى أن مثل هذه الملتقيات تسهم في توجيه الباحثين عن عمل نحو التدريب النوعي الأمثل ونوعية الوظائف واحتياجات سوق العمل الفعلية، فضلاً عن توعية الشباب الباحث عن عمل بالمهارات المطلوبة للفرص والشواغر الوظيفية، واشراكهم في برامج تدريبية لتزويدهم بالمهارات المهنية المطلوبة لتسهيل إدماجهم في سوق العمل.
Humaidan praises the contribution of the Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Association in attracting specialized events to the Kingdom
26-09-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، رئيس جمعية البحرين للمعارض والمؤتمرات السيد كاظم السعيد، وذلك في مكتبه بالوزارة. وخلال اللقاء استعرض السعيد أبرز مستجدات المشاريع التي تنفذها الجمعية، والمتمثلة في إقامة المعارض والمؤتمرات في إطار أداء دورها وتنفيذ مبادراتها لجعل مملكة البحرين مركزاً إقليمياً لإقامة المعارض والندوات المتنوعة. وفي هذا السياق، أشاد حميدان بالدور الحيوي الذي تقوم به الجمعية في توظيف الجهود التطوعية للكوادر الوطنية المؤهلة مهنياً، وبما تملكه من خبرات وتجارب في مجال صناعة المعارض والمؤتمرات، بفضل اعتمادها على سجل وقاعدة بيانات مسخرة لخدمة وتطوير وتنمية هذه الصناعة، مضيفاً أن مملكة البحرين تتبوأ حالياً مركزاً تنافسياً على الصعيد الإقليمي في صناعة المعارض والمؤتمرات المتخصصة لما تملكه من مقومات خدماتية متكاملة تساعد على استمرارية هذا النوع من الاستثمار التجاري. بدوره، أشار السعيد إلى أن صناعة المؤتمرات باتت من الصناعات المهمة لتعزيز وتنويع النشاط الاقتصادي البحريني، ولفت إلى ان التوجه الحالي في انشاء مشروع مدينة للمعارض والمؤتمرات يعتبر من الفرص الرائدة، حيث سيعمل على بناء جسور من التعاون والتواصل بين الجهات الرسمية ذات العلاقة وشركات المعارض والمؤتمرات، إضافة إلى بلورة الرؤى والخطط والمشاريع الكفيلة بالنهوض بهذه الصناعة الحيوية، وتعزيز تنافسيتها، فضلاً عن مساهمتها في صقل وإعداد كوادر بحرينية مختصة في فروع هذه الصناعة من تخطيط وتنفيذ وترويج وتسويق وخدمات وغيرها من المجالات التنموية.
Praising the results of His Highness Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa Award for Voluntary Work.. Humaidan: The award contributed to motivating young people to be creative in voluntary fields.
25-09-2019
أشاد سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان بجائزة سمو الشيخ عيسى بن علي بن خليفة آل خليفة للعمل التطوعي، مؤكداً أنها ساهمت بشكل كبير في إثراء العمل التطوعي بمملكة البحرين، وذلك منذ انطلاقها وعلى مدى تسع سنوات، ومنوهاً في الوقت ذاته بالمشاركة الواسعة من قبل المنظمات الأهلية للتشرف بنيل هذه الجائزة، الأمر الذي أدى إلى تطوير هذه المنظمات لآليات العمل التطوعي والانساني، وهو ما نتطلع إليه جميعاً. جاء ذلك بمناسبة حفل تكريم الفائزين بجائزة سمو الشيخ عيسى بن علي آل خليفة للعمل التطوعي، الذي أقيم اليوم الاثنين، تحت رعاية سموه، حيث هنأ حميدان سمو الشيخ عيسى بن علي آل خليفة بنجاح الجائزة وتحقيها لأهدافها المنشودة على المستوى العربي والدولي، إذ أنها تعد واحدة من أهم جوائز العمل التطوعي في العالم العربي، والتي تسلط الضوء على النماذج المضيئة للتطوع في أنحاء المنطقة، مشيداً بحرص سموه، على رعاية هذه الجائزة للعام التاسع على التوالي، الأمر الذي يأتي تأكيداً لحرصه على دعم مبادرات التطوع واستدامة العمل الأهلي، وذلك اقتداءً بالنهج الأصيل لصاحب السمو الملكي الأمير خليفة بن سلمان آل خليفة، رئيس مجلس الوزراء الموقر، حفظه الله ورعاه. وبهذه المناسبة، هنأ حميدان المنظمات التي نالت شرف فوز مشاريعها بالجائزة لهذا العام، مؤكداً ان اهتمام سمو الشيخ عيسى بن علي بن خليفة آل خليفة، بالعمل التطوعي أعطى دافعاً للشباب البحريني للمشاركة في مختلف المجالات التطوعية، وحفزهم على الإبداع والابتكار في الأساليب والمناهج لتطوير العمل التطوعي وجعله عملاً مؤسسياً، مبنياً على أسس علمية سليمة، منوهاً بأهمية تعزيز العمل التطوعي بمختلف أنواعه كالجهد اليدوي أو المهني أو التبرع بالمال وغير ذلك، حيث أنه يعد ركيزة أساسية نحو استقرار وتماسك المجتمع، مشيداً بالتعاون والتكامل بين الجهات الرسمية والأهلية في هذا المجال. وفي هذا الإطار، أشار سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية إلى أن جائزة سمو الشيخ عيسى بن علي للعمل التطوعي تسهم في تحقيق أهداف التنمية المستدامة التي أقرتها الأمم المتحدة، وذلك من خلال دورها في تعزيز التعاون بين الحكومات والمنظمات الأهلية، وهو ما يتحقق من خلال مؤازرة المشروعات التطوعية التي تتوافق مع الخطط التنموية والتي تستهدف جميع فئات المجتمع لتلبية احتياجاتها بالصورة الصحيحة.
Humaidan discusses with the Sudanese ambassador strengthening technical cooperation and developing labor and development fields
24-09-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، بسعادة سفير جمهورية السودان الشقيقة لدى مملكة البحرين، السيد إبراهيم محمد الحسن، وذلك في مكتبه اليوم الاثنين. وتم خلال اللقاء بحث ما يتعلق بتنمية وتطوير التعاون في مختلف المجالات التنموية والعمالية والتنسيق بين البلدين الشقيقين في المحافل العمالية العربية والدولية، في إطار العمل الثنائي والعربي المشترك. وبهذه المناسبة أشاد حميدان بعمق العلاقات القائمة بين البحرين والسودان الشقيق، مؤكداً أهمية تعزيز التعاون الفني بين البلدين في المجالين العمالي والاجتماعي وتبادل التجارب الناجحة في هذا الإطار، مستعرضاً الجهود التي تبذلها الحكومة الموقرة في تطوير أنظمة سوق العمل، وتعزيز الحماية الاجتماعية للمواطنين وضمان حقوق العمالة الوافدة. من جانبه، أكد السفير السوداني على أهمية العلاقة التي تربط البلدين الشقيقين على صعيد تعزيز العمل العربي المشترك، لافتاً إلى ما تحظى به المملكة من مكانة دولية بارزة بفضل ما تشهده من تطور على مختلف الأصعدة، مبدياً رغبة حكومة بلاده في زيادة التعاون في كافة المجالات، وعلى وجه الخصوص في المجالين العمالي والتنموي.
Humaidan briefs the new Sri Lankan ambassador on Bahrain's experience in developing the labor market
23-09-2019
التقى سعادة وزير العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية، رئيس مجلس إدارة هيئة تنظيم سوق العمل، السيد جميل بن محمد علي حميدان، بسفيرة جمهورية سريلانكا الديمقراطية الاشتراكية، السيدة براديبا بريانغاني سارام، اليوم الأحد في مكتبه بالوزارة، وذلك بمناسبة بدء مهامها الدبلوماسية كسفيرة لبلادها في البحرين. وخلال اللقاء، رحب حميدان بالسفيرة السريلانكية، متمنياً لها التوفيق والنجاح في مهام عملها الدبلوماسي بمملكة البحرين، مشيداً في هذا السياق بالعلاقات القائمة البلدين الصديقين. وقد أطلع الوزير حميدان السيدة سارام على الجهود الوطنية المبذولة في مجال تطوير أنظمة سوق العمل والتشريعات العمالية التي تتوافق مع معايير العمل الدولية، وسعي المملكة المستمر لضمان توفير الحماية القانونية لجميع العمال، مؤكداً اهتمام الحكومة الموقرة بتعزيز الحماية الاجتماعية وتأمين بيئة العمل السليمة والآمنة. من جانبها، أشادت السيدة سارام بعمق العلاقات القائمة بين البلدين، منوهة بما تشهده مملكة البحرين من تطور ونماء في هذا العهد الزاهر، ولافتة الى ما تتمتع به المملكة من مكانة متقدمة في مجال تعزيز حقوق العمال وتوفير كافة أشكال الحماية القانونية والاجتماعية، مؤكدة بهذه المناسبة حرص ورغبة حكومة بلادها على تطوير التعاون بين البلدين، وخاصة في مجال العمل وتنمية الموارد البشرية وتبادل التجارب الناجحة في هذا المجال، ومنوهة في هذا السياق بما تحظى به الجالية السريلانكية من رعاية واهتمام من حكومة مملكة البحرين.