National Talent Skills and Support Career Growth in the Labour Market

• Launch of the “Tamakkan” program to develop individuals’ skills through accredited training pathways aligned with labor market needs.

• Launch of the “Qiyada” program to encourage private-sector enterprises to attract and employ Bahrainis into managerial and leadership roles.

As part of its ongoing efforts to empower Bahraini talent and strengthen their contribution to the private sector, and investing in the national workface as a key pillar of sustainable growth, the Labour Fund “Tamkeen” announced the launch of “Tamakkan” and “Qiyada” programs as enhanced versions of its training and leadership employment programs.

The two programs aim to develop and prepare Bahrainis for impactful leadership roles by aligning training and employment outcomes with current and future labor market needs. They are designed to enhance the competitiveness of Bahrainis, open new pathways for career advancement across various economic sectors, and support enterprises in investing in local talent and preparing them for managerial and leadership positions that drive private sector growth and development.

The “Tamakkan” program develops individuals’ skills through accredited training pathways that include professional, technical, and leadership competencies aligned with labor market requirements. Through a grant-based support model, the program covers training costs associated with obtaining the qualifications and certifications needed to advance professionally.

Under the program, training costs will be covered at 100% for job seekers subject to the program’s support  caps, while support will reach 70% for employed individuals and 50% for enterprise training programs.

Additionally, the “Tamakkan” program offers an approved and continuously updated list of supported professional certifications, enabling both individuals and enterprises to select training programs that best meet their needs. Applications for the inclusion of new certifications will be opened to training providers every six months, based on clear and approved criteria to ensure quality outcomes and alignment with labor market demands.

Meanwhile, the “Qiyada” program provides 30% wage support for 12 months, encouraging private sector enterprises to attract and hire Bahraini talent into managerial and leadership positions, with salaries reaching BHD 2,500. The program supports quality employment opportunities and career progression for Bahraini professionals, helping them gain the experience and exposure needed to take on leadership responsibilities within their organizations.

These programs are expected to encourage greater investment in national talent by private sector enterprises, increase quality employment opportunities for Bahrainis, and strengthen workforce readiness to meet evolving market needs. They also contribute to achieving national development objectives by building a more resilient, competitive, and future-ready workforce.

Individuals and enterprises can learn more about these programs and submit applications through Tamkeen’s website at www.tamkeen.bh.

The launch of these new programs aligns with Tamkeen’s strategic priorities for 2026, which focus on areas with the highest returns on the economy and Bahrainis. It also reflects Tamkeen’s role in shaping career pathways through programs that connect skills with opportunities in the labor market, adopting innovative approaches to stimulate private sector growth and financing, and implementing programs that enhance the Fund’s efficiency and effectiveness by developing internal mechanisms and continuously strengthening governance.