Doha:The First Gulf Forum for Labor Market Skills, themed "From Empowerment to Leadership," has put forth recommendations to enhance Gulf integration in skills development policies. The forum advocated for the creation of a unified GCC strategy to better align education and training programs with labor market demands.

According to Qatar News Agency, the forum was organized by the Ministry of Labor in collaboration with the Executive Bureau of the GCC Council of Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. Participants emphasized the need for investment in national talent and improved mechanisms for anticipating future skills needs, along with assessing the impact of skills development programs.

The forum's recommendations included the potential establishment of a joint GCC committee to develop a unified strategy that addresses technological advancements and evolving workplace requirements. The focus is on enhancing national talent readiness for future skills and jobs. Strengthening partnerships among educational institutions, training facilities, and the private sector was also highlighted, with a push for training programs tailored to the actual and anticipated needs of economic sectors.

Additionally, the forum called for a greater role for the private sector in identifying necessary skills, designing training programs, and offering learning and professional development opportunities. This is aimed at ensuring that training outcomes align with job requirements.

Participants proposed that the forum become an annual event, rotating among GCC member states to maintain dialogue and strengthen Gulf coordination on shared challenges related to skills and work in the future. Khames Mohammed Al Naimi, MOL's Assistant Undersecretary for National Manpower Affairs in the Private Sector, underscored the importance of sustained joint efforts among GCC states to develop skill systems and exchange expertise, enhancing readiness for changing labor market demands.

Al Naimi also highlighted the necessity of continued investment in human capital, focusing on the ability to learn, adapt, and innovate amid rapid technological and digital transformations. He advocated for broader opportunities for GCC talent to contribute to development and influence future endeavors.