A proposal calling for a special employment office for people of determination has been unanimously approved by Parliament.
The urgent proposal, led by newly elected services committee vice-chairman Dr Muneer Suroor, was yesterday referred to the Cabinet for review.
MPs want the office established at the Labour Ministry to help people with disabilities find jobs suited to their talents, abilities and individual needs.
Dr Suroor said a specialised unit would prevent unsuitable referrals and provide a more personalised approach to recruitment, taking into account mobility, hearing, speech, visual and cognitive disabilities.
“Many people of determination are fully capable of performing their duties to the highest standards. Some can even deliver exceptional results when placed in jobs that match their abilities, qualifications and potential,” he said.
“However, we have come across cases in which young men and women were nominated for positions that did not suit their circumstances. “Referring a deaf applicant to a reception job that requires answering visitors, for example, raises questions about whether sufficient information was available or properly checked before candidates were shortlisted.”
The proposed office would provide a dedicated channel for jobseekers to submit their details, communicate with Labour Ministry officials and receive guidance throughout the recruitment process.
“Employment opportunities must be based on what a person can do, rather than on assumptions about what they cannot do. The right placement can allow people of determination to contribute productively to the workplace and achieve greater independence,” Dr Suroor said.
The proposal also calls for specially trained staff, including employees proficient in sign language to assist people with hearing impairments.
The measures are intended to make the application process more accessible, ease communication difficulties and help jobseekers navigate recruitment procedures with greater confidence.
The explanatory memorandum states that a similar office existed in the past, based on information provided by disability support activists.
Re-establishing the service, MPs believe, could make employment assistance more responsive to individual needs.
According to government data, 1,785 job opportunities were allocated to persons with disabilities in 2025, with around 1,300 currently employed in the private sector.
A total of 275 individuals benefited from employment schemes, with 210 successfully placed in jobs.
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