MEDRC launches third edition of vocational training programme

Times News Service

MUSCAT: The Middle East Desalination Research Centre (MEDRC) Water Research launched the third edition of their vocational training programme, TAHLYA, as part of BP Oman’s Social Investment Programme.

The programme, held under the patronage of Dr Muna bint Salim Al Jardania, Undersecretary for Technological Education and Vocational Training, Ministry of Manpower, saw the attendance of Ciarán Ó Cuinn, MEDRC’s Centre Director, Mohammed Al Mahruqi, Chairman Public Authority of Electricity and Water, along with BP Oman President Yousuf Al Ojaili, along with other senior executives from the public and private sector.

“TAHLYA is a unique training initiative, which will ensure that the water sector in Oman can be run by the people of Oman, for the people of Oman,” said Ó Cuinn

“We are very proud of our partnership with BP and what it has delivered in a few short years. We are delighted to be partnering with them for the third consecutive year to deliver this programme in 2019,” he added.

The event also witnessed the graduation of 73 TAHLYA 2018 trainees, including 25 females. The group comprised 43 supervisors and 30 operators.

TAHLYA supports its graduates in obtaining full time employment. To date, 91 per cent of last year’s graduates are employed in various desalination-related companies.

The new edition, which begins in February 2019, will train 76 young Omani jobseekers in reverse osmosis desalination technologies, and enable them to sub-specialise in operations, mechanics, laboratory and instrumentation.

This, in turn, will provide them with more opportunities for employment after completing the programme.

Trainees in the programme will be selected from registered job seekers at the Public Authority of Manpower. The training programme aligns with the Sultanate’s strategy of supporting national priorities by inspiring growth throughout the local workforce. “BP Oman’s social investment programme focuses on serving and empowering local Omani capabilities in driving Oman towards a self-sufficient and progressive future,” said Shamsa Al Rawahi, BP Oman’s Social Investment Programme Manager.