Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development and the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech) signed an agreement to launch a specialised training programme aimed at preparing people with disabilities for employment, entrepreneurship and long-term professional integration on Wednesday.

The two-year initiative targets beneficiaries with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome enrolled at the National Autism Centre and the Vocational Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre. It seeks to equip them with industry-relevant technical and workplace skills that meet the evolving needs of the labour market.

The agreement was signed by H E Dr Abdullah bin Hamoud Al Harthy, Undersecretary for Persons with Disabilities Affairs in the Ministry of Social Development, and Dr Hussain bin Sulaiman Al Salmi, Vice Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs at GUtech.

Participants will receive specialised training in computer numerical control (CNC) machining, 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD), alongside courses in communication, workplace discipline, professional behaviour, teamwork and other employability skills to help them integrate successfully into the workforce.

The programme also aims to develop a scalable vocational training model that can be expanded to other professional fields for people with disabilities whose capabilities enable them to benefit from similar initiatives.

The programme will be delivered in three phases over two years. The first six months will focus on vocational and technical training, followed by a comprehensive assessment to identify participants ready for employment.

Those not immediately placed in jobs will progress to a second six-month phase centred on entrepreneurship, where they will receive training in self-employment, business planning and teamwork while working with their families to develop viable business ideas.

The final one-year phase will provide incubation support through GUtech’s Innovation Centre, offering technical, operational and marketing assistance to help participants transform their ideas into sustainable, income-generating enterprises.

H E Al Harthy said the agreement reflects the ministry’s commitment to expanding rehabilitation and economic empowerment opportunities for people with disabilities while strengthening partnerships with academic institutions to develop innovative national models for workplace inclusion.

Al Salmi said the partnership reinforces GUtech’s commitment to applying its academic expertise, research and technological capabilities to serve society and support sustainable development, adding that higher education institutions have a vital role in addressing national development priorities through practical, innovation-driven solutions.