Enhancing Workforce in Oman's Energy Sector

The Sultanate of Oman plays a crucial role in the clean energy sector and is steadily advancing towards becoming a regional hub for energy and minerals, leveraging its vast natural and human resources. This growth highlights the pressing need for specialised professionals who can manage, develop and harness the full potential of Oman’s energy sector. In this context, the Oman Energy Institute was established with the goal of training and qualifying specialised human resources to contribute to the development of the energy sector at both local and regional levels. Eng Naser bin Nasser al Siyabi, Director General of the Oman Energy Institute, stated that the institute was founded in 2018 under the name "Oman Oil and Gas Institute," and in November 2024, it celebrated the launch of its new identity as the "Oman Energy Institute."

This strategic move aims to broaden its scope to include all energy sectors, from oil and gas to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy, as well as emerging fields like green hydrogen and various mining sectors. He added that the institute offers specialised training programmes covering oil, gas and renewable energy, with focus on hydrogen, as well as professional safety management and soft skills. The programmes aim to qualify both national and regional talents to meet the global shifts in the energy sector. These programmes stand out by using advanced technologies, including simulations and virtual reality, in collaboration with international institutions to enhance training quality and align with global developments.

The programmes blend theoretical education with practical application. Since its inception, the institute has conducted over 1,000 training courses, benefiting more than 8,000 trainees. This reflects the growing interest from individuals and institutions in learning and training in various energy fields. The institute has also bolstered employment opportunities for Omani youth by offering specialised courses f graduates and job seekers, preparing them for entry into the workforce in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals. The institute aims to become a leading reference for energy in the region by building strategic local and international partnerships that ensure the implementation of the latest standards and best practices through investing in human capital.

The Director General further explained that Oman continues to develop its human resources through education and vocational training at the Oman Energy Institute to meet the increasing demand for specialised skills in various energy sectors, including both traditional and renewable energy. This strengthens Oman’s position as a regional hub for human resources development in this vital sector. It is worth noting that amid global energy transformations, Oman has adopted a comprehensive strategy to develop its energy sector and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, with a strong focus on advancing solar and wind energy projects.