The Employment and Training Corporation (ETC) has launched an extensive programme full of initiatives for young persons between the ages of 16 and 24 years. This programme is partially funded by the European Social Fund of the European Union.

The Youth Employment Programme is aimed to help young people enter, retain and progress in the world of work. Through this programme, ETC will be able to help young jobseekers make informed choices about their future.

As part of this programme, ETC is developing a specific website which will provide the necessary information, career resources and tools, advice, virtual interviews, quizzes and online one-to-one consultancy to the young jobseekers. Another major project is the production of a TV programme which will tackle topics according to labour market needs. ETC will also organise a number of Youth Days which amongst others will include workshops, challenge areas, film forums and exhibition areas. The Youth Employment Programme promotes lifelong learning since this is essential to the individual’s personal and social development.

ETC has engaged a team of professionals made up of a career guidance practitioner, a psychologist, an occupational therapist and two youth workers. The career guidance practitioner will be supporting the jobseekers in developing their own action plans and pursue their training which will help them to enter the job market. The Psychologist will help youngsters deal with personal situations which can hinder them from entering into employment. The Occupational therapist will support individuals with particular needs such as those with disability, mental health issues or social problems. Youth workers will be outreaching youth in the community. This outreach is aimed at feeding young adults in to the other services of the programme and to encourage them to take part in the activities which will be organised for them.

More information on the Youth Employment Programme can be obtained from the ETC website www.etc.gov.mt, by email on yep.etc@gov.mt or by phone on 2220 1224.

Issued: 8th April 2010

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