Manama : As part of its ongoing efforts to empower Bahraini talent, strengthen their contribution to the private sector, and invest in the national workforce as a key pillar of sustainable growth, the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) announced the launch of the “Tamakkan” and “Qiyada” programmes as enhanced versions of its training and leadership employment programmes.
The two programmes aim to develop and prepare Bahrainis for impactful leadership roles by aligning training and employment outcomes with current and future labour market needs. They are designed to enhance the competitiveness of Bahrainis, open new pathways for career advancement across various economic sectors, and support businesses by investing in local talent and preparing them for managerial and leadership positions that drive private sector growth and development.
The “Tamakkan” programme develops individuals’ skills through accredited training pathways that include professional, technical, and leadership competencies aligned with labour market requirements. Through a grant-based support model, the programme covers training costs associated with obtaining the qualifications and certifications needed to advance professionally.
Under the programme, training costs will be covered at 100% for jobseekers, subject to the programme’s support caps, while support will reach 70% for employed individuals and 50% for enterprise training programmes.
Additionally, the “Tamakkan” programme offers an approved and continuously updated list of supported professional certifications, enabling both individuals and businesses to select training programmes that best meet their needs. Applications for the inclusion of new certifications will be opened to training providers every six months, based on clear and approved criteria to ensure quality outcomes and alignment with labour market demands.
Meanwhile, the “Qiyada” programme provides 30% wage support for 12 months, encouraging private sector enterprises to attract and hire Bahraini talent into managerial and leadership positions, with salaries reaching 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 within their organisations.
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. They also contribute to achieving national development objectives by building a more resilient, competitive, and future-ready workforce.
Individuals and enterprises can learn more about these programmes and submit applications through Tamkeen’s website.
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, adopting innovative approaches to stimulate private sector growth and financing, and implementing programmes that enhance the fund’s efficiency and effectiveness by developing internal mechanisms and continuously strengthening governance.
