Sohar International Strengthens Local IT Talent Development through MoU with Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology
Muscat – Sohar International has formalized its commitment to fostering local talent by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology. This partnership aims to establish a paid training program focused on Information Technology, aligning with the “National Initiative for Digital Competencies – Makeen.” The initiative is designed to support Oman’s evolving digital economy and enhance technical capabilities among Omani professionals.
Objectives of the MoU
The MoU reflects a strategic alignment with Oman Vision 2040, which emphasizes labor market development and job creation as national priorities. The agreement was signed by Mahira Al Raisi, Chief People Officer of Sohar International, and Dr. Seema Saady Nasser AL Kaabi, Director General of Sector Stimulation & Future Skills at the Ministry. The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from both organizations, underscoring the collaborative nature of this initiative.
Commitment to Talent Development
Mahira Al Raisi emphasized that talent development is a strategic priority for Sohar International, crucial for maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly digitizing financial landscape. She stated that the program aims to prepare individuals for significant roles by providing them with early exposure to modern banking standards and practices. The initiative is expected to contribute to the goal of increasing the national workforce’s share in newly created private sector jobs to 40% by 2040.
Dr. Seema Saady Nasser AL Kaabi highlighted the importance of aligning talent development with the needs of the labor market, particularly in high-impact sectors like Information Technology. She noted that this collaboration aims to enhance the quality and readiness of the national workforce, thereby supporting employability and contributing to a knowledge-based economy.
Training Program Details
The MoU outlines a one-year paid training program for up to 25 candidates in the Information Technology field. Participants will receive a financial allowance throughout the program and will undergo quarterly performance evaluations based on professional banking standards. Those who meet the evaluation criteria will be considered for employment opportunities, reinforcing a merit-based approach to career progression.
Selection criteria for participants will be jointly defined by Sohar International and the Ministry, with the latter providing a pool of pre-qualified candidates from national initiatives. The program will operate under a framework of shared oversight, with the Ministry coordinating candidate engagement and monitoring progress, while Sohar International will manage evaluations to ensure alignment with its professional standards.
Impact on Economic Diversification
This initiative is part of broader national efforts to build a diversified, innovation-driven economy supported by a skilled workforce. By focusing on the Information Technology sector, which is critical to Oman’s economic diversification, Sohar International is aligning its human resources strategy with the country’s long-term objectives. The bank aims to extend its impact beyond its core business through carefully selected programs and partnerships that yield measurable and relevant outcomes.
About Sohar International
Sohar International is recognized as Oman’s fastest-growing bank, with a vision to become a leading service provider that supports the prosperity of customers, communities, and individuals. The bank offers a range of innovative solutions across Commercial and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, and Islamic Banking, among others. With a strong digital-first approach and an expanding regional presence, including operations in Saudi Arabia, Sohar International is dedicated to creating value through strategic partnerships and enhancing customer experiences.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-05-13 19:30:00 • By the Editorial Desk
