Kuwait has chosen to prolong the evening shift of government workers through June as part of its ongoing efforts to increase workplace efficiency. The action, which was initially rolled out on a pilot basis, is designed to increase the accessibility of public services while managing the workforce issues. Authorities are watching closely for the effects of the new work schedule and will adjust accordingly based on feedback from employees and the needs of operations.
The program was instituted to better manage workflow, minimize peak-hour congestion, and enhance service delivery to citizens. Some concerns have been expressed about workers’ welfare, work-life balance, and the efficiency of evening shifts in some sectors. Government agencies have been mandated to conduct data collection on productivity and efficiency of services in order to establish whether the model is to be adopted on a permanent basis or modified.
Public sentiment towards the extension of the evening shift has been varied. While some of the employees welcome the extra flexibility and lighter daytime work, others protested that they feared longer working hours at the expense of family obligations. However, government officials affirm that the project is currently still in its evaluation stages and that whatever adjustments are needed to overcome challenges will be made before a decision is finalized.
As the trial phase continues, Kuwaiti officials are set to issue additional updates depending on public and employee feedback. The initiative’s success may lead to more flexible work arrangements across the country’s public sector in line with efforts to increase productivity and digitize government services.
