KUWAIT CITY, Nov 26: Kuwait’s Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, has issued a new decree regulating the appointment of specialized cooperative oversight officials, in a move aimed at modernizing supervision of the cooperative sector and strengthening consumer trust.

Al-Huwailah told KUNA on Wednesday that Ministerial Decree No. 306 of 2025 introduces unified selection standards designed to protect cooperative funds and reinforce the sector’s role as a key pillar of the country’s food security system. She said the Ministry is committed to a comprehensive development plan that boosts oversight efficiency, improves transparency, and empowers qualified national cadres to assume stronger supervisory responsibilities.

Under Article 1 of the decree, applications for these oversight positions will be submitted exclusively through the Ministry’s official website, with online announcements outlining deadlines, conditions, and required documents to ensure transparency and equal opportunity.

Article 2 sets specific eligibility criteria, including holding a bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade of “very good” or equivalent from a university accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education, in specializations listed under Civil Service Council Resolution No. 34 of 2016 and its amendments. The decree also bars candidates who previously served on cooperative boards and were dismissed, and limits applicants to those aged 40 or younger at the time of application. All applicants must pass both a written exam and a personal interview.

Article 3 requires candidates to apply through a unified electronic form and attach all required documentation, including academic certificates, transcripts, civil ID, CV, personal photo, experience certificates (if applicable), criminal record clearance, an acknowledgment of having read the decree, and employer approval for secondment or transfer. Incomplete or late submissions will be rejected.

Under Article 4, the Human Resources Development Department, in coordination with relevant units, will screen applications and prepare a list of eligible candidates for the Undersecretary’s approval before examinations are conducted by a specialized committee. The Minister stressed that the screening process will follow “precise and transparent procedures.”

Al-Huwailah noted that the decree overrides any conflicting provisions and takes effect upon publication in the Official Gazette. She said the new framework is intended to strengthen governance, enhance supervisory performance, and ensure the sustainability of the cooperative sector’s national role.

Minister Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah announces the new decree regulating cooperative oversight appointments.