Muscat: The event, held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Ahmed bin Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, marked a significant step in empowering Omani youth and enhancing the local economy.

Dr. Ali bin Mohammed Tabuk, CEO of Salalah Free Zone, delivered a speech in which he emphasized the opportunities available to freelancers in the textile sector, especially in the clothing industry, pointing to the role of the region in supporting this national initiative, in order to achieve the enhancement and support of the national economy through the implementation of local added value policies, investing in local energies, and providing an appropriate environment to enhance freelance work.

Dr. Badr bin Hamoud Al Kharousi, Advisor and Head of the Capacity Building Track at the National Employment Programme, underlined the critical role of cross-sector collaboration.

The newly launched “Khuta” platform, developed by the private sector and supported by the National Employment Programme, offers a comprehensive suite of tools for freelancers in the clothing industry. These include financial, administrative, and technical training solutions aimed at equipping Omani youth to thrive in the competitive labour market.

Ghassan bin Fadl Bait Salim, Head of the Economic Track at the National Employment Programme, provided an in-depth presentation on the incentives available through the freelance work package. These include training and technical support tailored to the textile sector, ensuring young Omanis have access to sustainable income opportunities.

The event also featured a cooperation agreement between the Salalah Free Zone and the “Khuta” platform, establishing a partnership to create specialized job opportunities in professional clothing. An accompanying exhibition showcased the platform’s role in connecting institutions with freelancers, fostering innovation in the textile industry.