13 January 2016
As part of its National Objectives programme to create sustainable employment and training opportunities for Omani jobseekers, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has signed a co-operation agreement with the Oman Society of Contractors (OSC).

The agreement was signed by PDO Managing Director Raoul Restucci and Shahswar Al Balushi, Chief Executive Officer for the Oman Society of Contractors.

Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding, both parties will co-operate to promote Omanisation through training and direct employment in the construction sector. PDO's National Objective programme, which aims to create 7,000 job opportunities in the private sector for young Omanis each year through to 2020, will work with OSC to identify the areas for collaboration and exchange experiences.

PDO will also work with its contractor Apex E-Commerce LLC to support OSC in training and employment through the "Mujeed" initiative which matches qualified and experienced jobseekers with both public and private sector vacancies free of charge.

"PDO is committed to providing jobs and training opportunities for young Omanis across a broad range of trades and skills that will benefit the individuals and their families as well as generating sustainable long-term economic benefits for the Sultanate. This is a further example of our commitment in action and we look forward to working with the OSC to deliver this important programme for the Construction industry," said Mr Restucci.

OSC CEO Mr Al Balushi stated that the MOU is a live demonstration of cross sector collaboration as well as client contractor partnership. He said: "A competent and skilful local workforce is a great asset for everyone. We will be working with PDO to identify the appropriate development of young Omanis in fields that suit their career aspirations and sector requirements.

"This is a continuous national objective that requires our dedication and commitment. The best way to address the present challenges is to build appropriate capacity and a talent pool that is committed and productive. The private sector needs to be proactive and should join forces to resolve their challenges."

Since 2011, PDO's National Objectives programme has generated more than 20,000 job and training opportunities with its contractors for Omanis in the oil and gas industry as well as  construction focusing on areas such as civil, mechanical and electrical engineering trades. This has been achieved working closely alongside partners including the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), PDO contractors, and local training institutes.

About
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is the major exploration and production company in the Sultanate. It accounts for about 70% of the country's crude-oil production and nearly all of its natural-gas supply. The Company is owned by the Government of Oman (which has a 60% interest), the Shell Group (which has a 34% interest), Total (which has a 4% interest) and Partex (which has a 2% interest). Gas fields and processing plants are operated by PDO exclusively on behalf of the Government.

For further information please contact the PDO External Affairs Directorate: Ian Ford, Tel: 2467-4246; E-mail: ian.IF.ford@pdo.co.om. 

© Press Release 2016