BP supports various vocational training programs in the Middle East, particularly focusing on the oil and gas sectors. 

Here are some of the key programs:

1. TAHLYA Vocational Training Program: This program, sponsored by BP Oman through their social investment program, is designed to train young Omani nationals in reverse osmosis desalination. 
2. 1. Training takes place at the MEDRC Water Research and Training Center in Muscat, Oman. 
   2. The program includes theoretical and practical training in water desalination technology, tailored to meet the manpower requirements of Oman's expanding desalination sector​ (MedRC)​.

1. Partnership with PetroSkills: BP is part of the PetroSkills Alliance, which was founded to provide competency-based training for the oil and gas industry. This alliance offers a variety of technical, vocational training courses that cover a broad spectrum of disciplines including drilling, production, reservoir engineering, and more, suitable for industry professionals across the globe, including the Middle East​ (PetroSkills)​.

These programs reflect BP's commitment to enhancing industry-specific skills and supporting economic development in the regions where they operate.

The Middle East Desalination Research Center (MEDRC) Water Research and Training Center, located in Muscat, Oman, is a significant institution focused on addressing the water needs of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region through research, training, and technology transfer in the field of water desalination and reuse. Here are some key points about MEDRC:

Purpose and Mission:

• Research and Innovation: MEDRC conducts and supports research aimed at enhancing the technology and methods used in water desalination and reuse.
• Capacity Building: The center provides specialized training programs designed to build the technical capacities of individuals and organizations in the water sector across the MENA region.

Training Programs:

• TAHLYA Program: This is a vocational training program aimed at young Omani nationals, focusing on reverse osmosis desalination. It includes both theoretical and hands-on practical training.
• Scholarship Programs: MEDRC offers scholarships to students from MENA countries to pursue water research that leads to advanced degrees such as MSc and PhD.

Collaboration and Partnerships:

• International Collaboration: MEDRC collaborates with international water research institutes, universities, and governmental bodies to advance water desalination technologies.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The center works closely with water authorities and industry stakeholders in the region to ensure that research and training are aligned with the practical needs of the water sector.

International relations MEDRC

Impact and Outreach:

• Sustainable Water Solutions: By focusing on desalination and water reuse, MEDRC contributes to sustainable water management solutions in arid regions.
• Community Engagement: The center also engages with local communities to promote water conservation and sustainable water use practices.

Facilities and Resources:

• Advanced Laboratories: MEDRC is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and training facilities to support advanced research and practical training in water treatment technologies.

MEDRC plays a critical role in addressing one of the most pressing issues in the MENA region—water scarcity—by fostering innovation, building local expertise, and promoting sustainable water management practices.