Lead:
Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and member of the Supreme Council, has approved a part-time employment scheme within Sharjah government to recruit 1,000 older adults and retirees. The initiative aims to integrate experienced senior citizens into the workforce while providing flexible working arrangements. The decision reflects broader government efforts to expand employment opportunities across demographic groups and leverage the knowledge of retired professionals.
Details:
According to Al-Khaleej reporting, Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi endorsed the part-time employment system during a government session on Monday. The scheme specifically targets citizens aged 55 and above, as well as pensioners seeking to return to professional roles. Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Director of the Sharjah Human Resources Department, confirmed that the new part-time arrangement will operate under distinct employment regulations separate from full-time civil service contracts.
The initiative forms part of a broader employment expansion announced simultaneously. Al-Khaleej confirmed that Sheikh Sultan also directed acceleration of recruitment for an additional 1,200 citizens across Sharjah government entities. Together, these measures represent a significant personnel injection into the emirate's public sector workforce. Al Zaabi stated that salary increases approved alongside the employment scheme will apply universally to all Sharjah government employees, ensuring equitable compensation adjustments across the workforce.
The timing reflects Sharjah's commitment to active aging policies and workforce diversification. By creating part-time positions tailored to senior citizens, the government addresses labor market participation among older demographics while retaining institutional knowledge and professional expertise. The scheme also provides flexible work options for retirees who wish to remain economically active without committing to full-time schedules.
Government officials emphasized that the initiative prioritizes the welfare and dignity of senior citizens while addressing labor market demands. The regulatory framework for part-time employment will differ from conventional civil service terms, offering adapted schedules and conditions suited to older workers. Sharjah's human resources directorate has been tasked with implementation and oversight of recruitment and onboarding procedures.
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