Oman launches employers survey to align higher education with job market demands

MUSCAT: The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI) on Sunday launched the Employers Survey 2025, a strategic initiative aimed at aligning higher education outcomes with the evolving needs of Oman’s labour market.

The survey, spearheaded by MoHERI’s Department of Statistics and Information, will gather data from establishments that have employed higher education graduates between 2018 and 2025, focusing on the first six months of the current year.

The primary objective of the survey is to assess the compatibility of academic qualifications with the skills and competencies required across various economic sectors. By identifying these requirements, the project seeks to inform educational policies that are responsive to market demands, thereby enhancing the employability of graduates and contributing to the nation's economic growth.

Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, emphasised the significance of the survey in the context of Oman Vision 2040.

She said: “Tthe initiative represents a fundamental pillar in devising educational policies that are closely linked to labour market needs, ultimately enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy.”

The launch event featured a visual presentation detailing the survey's objectives and implementation stages, underscoring the government's commitment to evidence-based policy-making.

By systematically collecting and analysing data on graduate employment, the survey aims to provide actionable insights that will guide curriculum development, training programmes, and strategic planning within higher education institutions.

The latest initiative reflects a proactive approach by the Omani government to address the challenges of workforce development and to ensure that the nation's educational system is aligned with its economic aspirations. Stakeholders across the education and employment sectors are encouraged to participate actively in the survey to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the labour market dynamics.