Strategic partnership formed for employee training initiatives

Muscat: In a significant move towards collaborative synergy, OQ, the global integrated energy group, has formalised a cooperation agreement with the General Federation of Oman Workers.

This strategic partnership encompasses the exchange of experiences, agreements for collective group work, employee secondment opportunities, implementation of awareness programmes, employee training initiatives and mutual utilisation of facilities and services.

The agreement symbolising a commitment to community partnership, was inked by Ashraf bin Hamad Al Mamari, CEO of People, Technology and Culture at OQ and Nabhan bin Ahmed Al Battashi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Federation of Oman Workers. Dr Mahad bin Said Baowain, Minister of Labour attended the occasion.

Ashraf bin Hamad Al Mamari expressed, "The signing of the cooperation agreement with the General Federation of Oman Workers is integral to our community partnership, aiming to build bridges of cooperation with the three tiers and provides a supportive and productive work environment. The Federation plays a pivotal role in representing the workers in the private sector and in serving its members."

He further stated, "OQ will support the Federation through various avenues, including experience exchange, training programmes and linking education to practical applications in line with the latest developments in laws and legislation.”

He further added, "We are eagerly anticipating the comprehensive proposal from the Federation, encompassing a thorough study of projects within our areas of collaboration. Our commitment is to actively explore avenues for the successful implementation of these proposed projects."

Al Battashi stated, "This agreement symbolises the continuous partnership and cooperation between the General Federation and OQ. It reflects the shared determination of both parties to play an instrumental role in achieving Oman Vision 2040, particularly in aspects related to fostering a conducive work environment in the private sector and upskilling the national workforce to meet the demands of the future Omani economy."

Emphasising the Federation's commitment to local partnerships, Al Battashi outlined the organisation's central role in fostering constructive social dialogue. This dialogue, he explained, aims to create a fair work environment in the private sector that prioritises workers' rights while simultaneously enhancing productivity levels within these organisations.
Al Battashi disclosed that the agreement spans three years and encompasses various aspects related to training, awareness and drawing on successful international experiences to enhance labour relations.

The General Federation of Oman Workers looks forward to the fruitful outcome of this collaboration with OQ and remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering positive developments within the national workforce.

In a resounding testament to its emphasis on human resources, OQ Group proudly announces that its full-time employee count has surged to 4,884 across all companies and sectors in 2022. Noteworthy is the remarkable Omanisation rate of approximately 84 percent, marking a significant increase from 82 percent in 2021.

A distinctive feature of OQ Group is its diverse workforce, comprising individuals from 50 nationalities both inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman. The group, guided by the principles of diversity, inclusion and equality, extends its operations across 17 countries spanning five continents globally.

The Federation, dedicated to safeguarding workers' interests, seeks to improve working conditions, raise productivity and foster social dialogue while defending their legally-established rights.

The General Federation of Oman Workers, in line with its multifaceted responsibilities, is actively engaged in a range of initiatives aimed at fortifying work values, empowering the workforce and representing their interests before various governmental and private entities.

One of the Federation's key roles is the consolidation of work values and the enhancement of associated concepts. By actively participating in councils and committees relevant to workers' affairs, the Federation plays a vital role in representing the workforce in both the public and private sectors.

The responsibilities also extend to addressing issues related to the functioning of administrative bodies within trade unions and federations. This includes a commitment to the development of workers' skills, the enhancement of their capabilities and the elevation of their professional standing. The Federation is steadfast in its dedication to improving the terms and conditions of labor and ensuring a fair and conducive work environment.

Furthermore, the General Federation of Oman Workers actively fosters social dialogue between the three production parties, creating an environment of collaboration and understanding. This collaborative approach extends to participation in the development of labour plans and programmes in conjunction with relevant authorities.