From Tradition to Technology: Societal and Educational Impacts on Job Preferences in Oman

Abstract

This study explores Omani undergraduate students’ employment readiness, job preferences, and the impact of English language proficiency, within the framework of Oman Vision 2040. Through qualitative analysis of interviews with 43 first-year students, seven themes emerged: occupational preferences, influences on career choices, technology-centric careers, preference for government versus private sector jobs, English proficiency as a prerequisite for employment, societal valuation of English skills, and English for global integration and mobility. The findings reveal a strong preference for comfortable, less physically demanding white-collar jobs, underscoring the need for educational reforms that align curricula with modern job market demands, particularly in enhancing STEM education and digital literacy. English language proficiency has been seen as crucial for securing desirable jobs, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive English training programs across all educational levels. Societal expectations and personal ambitions significantly influence career choices, with a preference for prestigious white-collar jobs over traditional professions. The study recommends educational interventions to address these evolving job preferences, promote all forms of work, and support the critical role of English proficiency in employment and career advancement. These insights contribute to the broader goals of economic diversification and sustainability outlined in Oman Vision 2040, offering valuable perspectives for policymakers, educators, and researchers.