MANAMA: Bahrainis are keen to bridge the gap between their educational preparation and actual job requirements, according to the findings by a global human resources consultancy.

Aon Hewitt's workplace study Qudurat has found that Bahrainis reported lower levels of engagement in the public sector than they did in the private sector.

It was found that less than half had confidence in the most senior leadership in their organisations.

There is a growing disconnect among Bahrainis over job requirements and preparation they have received through education when compared to foreign workers.

Lower levels of work engagement were also found among them in comparison to expatriates.

This could impact their longer term motivation, performance and productivity at workplace, the study said.

"As Bahrain's and the region's economies continue to recover, there will be a renewed and exponential growth focus on attracting, motivating and retaining top talent within all industrial sectors, with a greater emphasis on quality," said Aon Hewitt's applied research head for Middle East and North Africa Radhika Punshi.

"However, more than ever before, there is a greater urgency for alignment and collaboration between the education system and demand from employers, as an increasing number of young men and women seek opportunities for positive and productive employment.

"Our early findings point to a pressing mismatch between education and employment, significantly impacting the motivation, expectations and preparedness of current and future employees towards their jobs.

"On a more positive note, the fact that there is awareness among Bahrainis of this mismatch points towards a willingness to address it," she added.