RIYADH: Labor ministers of G20 opened discussions yesterday on issues related to unemployment and creation of jobs for the young generation.
The G20 ministers' meeting in Jalisco, Mexico, ends today. Minister of Labor Adel Fakeih is leading the Saudi team to the meeting.
Fakeih presented key initiatives adopted by the Saudi government on how to tackle imbalances of the labor market in light of its rich experience. The minister touched on Nitaqat and Hafiz programs and their role in achieving the required Saudization levels and creation of suitable working conditions for local manpower and, simultaneously, keeping foreign work force for their long-standing experience.
He explored the importance of partnership between public and private sectors in the area of vocational training in addition to government initiatives to support small and mediums enterprises (SMEs) in the Kingdom. The minister also presented a new initiative on e-training for job seekers through the Internet.
The current sessions of the G20 ministers are focusing on a number of topics including creation of jobs, particularly for young generations; provision of best means to deal with low-skilled workers; the integration between social protection and vocational preparation; and protection of worker rights. The conference agenda also includes provision of just and fair opportunities to achieve sustainable development and support to initiatives of young entrepreneurs, taking in consultancy and financial support.
