Omani jobseeker sets up his own poultry business

Muscat: An Omani graduate who earned a degree in supply chain management and logistics has used his skills to open a poultry business and help contribute towards the country’s food security, instead of waiting for someone else to hand him a job.

The 23-year-old Hood bin Hamad Al Ameri, who graduated from the Middle East College last year, had submitted his qualifications to many companies in the country, but had failed to hear back positively from any of them, leading to him feeling dejected, and worried about how he would build his life.

“I could not find a job with which to earn money to help myself get married, raise a family, buy a car, and build a home for myself,” said the Seeb native. “I had set up a project to sell poultry and meat in 2016, but could not fully devote myself to it because of my academic studies, and this has now provided me an opportunity to become independent,’ he added.

“I decided not to give up, but instead spent my spare time developing the skills to raise cattle and sell their meat, and to breed chickens, so I can sell poultry and eggs,” he said. “During Ramadan, Eid, and other social occasions, I earn about OMR700 to OMR800 a month, but otherwise, I get about OMR300 to OMR400.”

Despite the independence his business has provided him, Hood is keen to find himself a full-time job, so he can take good care of his future family.

“When I approach the family of a girl for her hand in marriage, they will ask me about where I work, and will be unlikely to give their daughter to a man who does not earn a fixed income in either the private or public sector,” he admitted.

“Therefore, I ask the government to provide jobs for me and other aspiring Omanis, so that I can use what I have learned during my academics, as well as my other skills and experiences, to serve the country, take care of my family, and help our community move forward.”