As part of its efforts to provide job opportunities for various segments of society, the Ministry of Labour (MoL) organised an event on Sunday to introduce part-time work and platforms providing such opportunities. 

“The target groups for part-time work are jobseekers, housewives, retirees, and college and school students who are at least 15 years old,” said H E Sheikh Nasr bin Amer al Hosani, Undersecretary of MoL. 

He added, “The ministry’s interest in part-time work comes from its belief in its importance in building a sustainable and diverse economy. Part-time work is one of the most important economic contributors to building experiences, refining skills, and an additional source of income to benefit a jobseeker or a worker. The ministry seeks to raise awareness on the importance of part-time work and to review ministerial decisions regulating them in line with the requirements of the current economy.” 

PDO, MoL launch Rakhaa 

On the sidelines of the event, the ministry and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) signed an agreement to launch Rakhaa, (meaning prosperity). It is an initiative which aims to build the capabilities of young Omanis and provide opportunities in the field of content creation. 

The project will include a digital platform that connects freelancers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the content creation space, specifically within photography, design, media, entertainment, technology and education, with local customers including government and private institutions and individuals who will be able to request for relevant services through the same platform.  

The agreement governing the initiative was signed by H E Sheikh Hosani and Eng Abdul Amir bin Abdul Hussain al Ajmi, director, External Affairs and Value Creation, PDO.  

Eng Ajmi said, “We are delighted to sign this agreement with MoL to take this initiative further. Not only will the Rakhaa project enable freelancers to engage and learn in an interactive environment, it will also provide Omani content creators with new and sustainable income opportunities that will contribute to the growth, prosperity and sustainability of the sultanate’s economy.” 

He added, “This is in line with Oman Vision 2040 which aims to equip the Omani youth with the necessary skills and talents to proactively contribute both at the local and international levels.”  

H E Sheikh Hosani said, “We commend PDO’s efforts in launching the Rakhaa platform as a company seriously supporting the sultanate’s plans in growing the gig economy. This platform will enable Omanis to thrive within Oman and beyond and provide them with a sustainable means of income.”