Manama:The Labour Fund (Tamkeen) took part in the 'Made in GCC 2026' Forum and Exhibition held under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The event was hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain from October 6th to 8th at Exhibition World Bahrain.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the forum gathered government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and experts from the GCC region to discuss the future of Gulf industries. Key discussions revolved around industrial integration, smart and sustainable manufacturing, innovation, financing, and the skills development necessary for future industry needs.
Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, Chief Executive of Tamkeen, participated in a panel discussion titled 'GCC Talent: From Skills Development to Employment.' She emphasized Bahrain's experience in nurturing national talent and preparing Bahrainis with the necessary skills to meet the rapid changes in the industrial sector. Mofeez highlighted Tamkeen's initiatives in supporting the training of Bahrainis and enhancing their readiness to capitalize on high-quality opportunities within the sector.
During her session, Mofeez underscored the industrial sector's crucial role in economic growth, diversification, and innovation. She noted its impact in boosting exports, enhancing productivity, attracting investment, and creating high-quality jobs for national talent. The manufacturing sector's contribution to Bahrain's GDP was approximately 14.6% in the first quarter of 2026, marking it as the second-largest contributor among economic activities.
Mofeez explained how the Fourth Industrial Revolution is reshaping job nature and required skills in the sector through automation, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies. She stressed the need for investing in national talent alongside technology and infrastructure to lead digital transformation and enhance competitiveness.
She also elaborated on Tamkeen's role in supporting this development through various programs and initiatives, including digital transformation, financing, employment, wages support, and professional development. These efforts aim to build enterprise capabilities and enhance the employability and career progression of Bahraini talent.
In conclusion, Mofeez highlighted that integrating investment in technology, talent, partnerships, and innovation is essential for building a competitive and sustainable industrial sector that can adapt to future changes and drive economic growth in Bahrain.
The 'Made in GCC 2026' Forum and Exhibition featured discussions on industrial policies, regional value chains, global market access, financing, smart manufacturing, sustainability, and national talent development. The event included over 40 speakers from the GCC and beyond, addressing these themes across eight panel discussions.