A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in training job seekers has been signed between the Special Economic Zone Authority in Duqm (Sezad) and Petroleum Development Oman, according to Times of Oman.
The MoU aims to qualify young Omanis to get proper job opportunities in various projects within the Duqm free zone.
According to the agreement, the Duqm authority will identify training opportunities in coordination with the companies and institutions operating in the Duqm free zone, while PDO will support and, where possible, fund the initiative. The companies and institutions that employ young people will also support by paying a monthly grant and social security costs.
Yahya bin Said bin Abdullah Al Jabri, chairman of Sezad, signed the MoU on behalf of Sezad, while Raoul Restucci, managing director of PDO, signed it on behalf of PDO.
“This agreement strengthens our relationship with Sezad, which is an important enabler for the economic sustainability of Oman and the creation of job and training opportunities for nationals,” said Restucci.
“PDO is already routing cargoes through Duqm as its builds its presence as a key regional logistics hub and is committed to helping Sezad develop Omani capability and capacity as the Sultanate diversifies its economy.”
The MoU also includes direct employment opportunities, which Sezad will identify in coordination with the companies and institutions operating there. The two parties will choose the training entity in accordance with the professional standards and controls issued by the Ministry of Manpower.
The renewable three-year MoU also stipulates that the parties will exchange experiences and best practices in areas that benefit Sezad and PDO. These include best practice in the field of financing training programmes, investor management, one-stop programmes for the development of local communities and the establishment of companies in concession areas.
The agreement also covers cooperation and exchange of experiences in social investment and tourism projects within the Duqm free zone, along with value-added programmes.
“We are delighted to sign this MoU, which bolsters our already strong partnership with Sezad and complements our key relationships with the well-established ports of Sohar and Salalah,” added Restucci.
