KUWAIT CITY, Dec 10: Dr. Saad Al-Barrak, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Oil, Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Petroleum Corporation, addressed the process of employment in the oil sector, emphasizing adherence to a unified mechanism approved by the Petroleum Corporation. Al-Barrak highlighted that job advertisements align with the company's annual budget, reflecting its diverse needs for qualifications and scientific specializations.

In response to a parliamentary inquiry from Representative Fahd Falah bin Jamea regarding the outcomes of the replacement and Kuwaitization initiative, Al-Barrak outlined the Kuwait Oil Company's strategy. He explained that the company classified positions into three categories: "easy to replace," "medium," and "difficult." Workers in the "easy to replace" category, mostly non-Kuwaiti, had their services terminated. However, roles classified as "medium" and "difficult" entail specialized and technical expertise not readily available locally, particularly in exploration, drilling, reservoir development, and other technical fields.

Acknowledging the shortage of qualified Kuwaiti workers for these roles, Al-Barrak detailed a replacement plan. Positions falling under the "medium" category would transition within 4 to 6 years, while those in the "difficult-to-replace" category would see a transition within 7 years, ensuring a phased approach until suitable Kuwaiti alternatives became available.

Al-Barrak noted a noteworthy increase in Kuwaitization over the past five years, rising from 89.25 percent in the fiscal year 2019/2020 to 93.03 percent in the fiscal year 2023/2024. He emphasized the company's commitment to training Kuwaiti workers, providing them with experience and intensive practical courses to equip them for roles of rare and challenging technical nature. The termination of non-Kuwaiti workers in these categories is contingent upon the availability of suitable and qualified alternatives, strategically timed to avoid disruptions to crucial projects.