The Labour Fund (Tamkeen) yesterday launched two new programmes that aim to develop and prepare Bahrainis for impactful leadership roles.
Tamakkan and Qiyada, introduced to empower Bahraini talent and strengthen their contribution to the private sector, come as part of efforts to invest in the national workforce as a key pillar of sustainable growth.
Tamakkan aims to develop individual skills through accredited training pathways aligned with labour market needs, while Qiyada encourages private sector enterprises to attract and employ Bahrainis in managerial and leadership roles.
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.
“These programmes 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,” Tamkeen said in a statement.
“They also contribute to achieving national development objectives by building a more resilient, competitive and future-ready workforce.
“The launch of these new programmes aligns with Tamkeen’s strategic priorities for 2026, which focus on areas with the highest returns for the economy and Bahrainis.
“It also reflects Tamkeen’s role in shaping career pathways through programmes that connect skills with opportunities in the labour market, and adopting innovative approaches to stimulate private sector growth and financing.
“It will also implement programmes that enhance the fund’s efficiency and effectiveness by developing internal mechanisms and continuously strengthening governance.”
Tamakkan, through a grant-based support model, covers training costs associated with obtaining the qualifications and certifications needed to advance professionally.
Under the programme, training costs will be covered at 100 per cent for job-seekers subject to support caps, while assistance will reach 70pc for employed individuals and 50pc for enterprise training.
Applications will be open to training providers every six months, based on clear and approved criteria to ensure quality outcomes and alignment with labour market demands.
Qiyada provides 30pc wage support for 12 months, encouraging private sector enterprises to attract and hire Bahraini talent into managerial and leadership positions, with salaries of up to BD2,500.
The programme supports quality employment opportunities and career progression for Bahraini professionals, helping them gain the experience and exposure needed to take on leadership responsibilities.
Individuals and enterprises can learn more and submit applications through Tamkeen’s website at www.tamkeen.bh.