The Island's young people can benefit immensely from Government's Summer Employment Programme (SEP) because of the versatility gained through real work experience, a Government Senator has heartened.

Senator Davida Morris championed the scheme on Friday, at a lunch cruise and reception at Albouy's Point, for more than 250 pupils hosted by Minister of Labour and Immigration Derrick Burgess.

"Government is so diverse, so try everything you're interested in," Sen. Morris advises to other young people. "Explore, network and throw yourself into the different departments, while learning as much as possible because it can lead to a job."

Approximately 140 college-age students participated in the SEP from June 18 to August 10, with the rest coming from Secondary schools, and joining from July 9 to August 10.

Bermudian Tre Houston, 17, about to enter his last year at CedarBridge Academy, said: "I'm here today because I heard it's mandatory and if you don't come, you don't get paid."

Mr. Houston has been working as a golf caddy at the St. George's Golf Club for the summer and has enjoyed his introductory flavour of the workforce.

"It's a good opportunity," he added about the programme, "because if you're interested in it, you might want to take it up further as a career or something.

"Right now I've got my mind on being a physical education teacher. I'm also a track runner and I would like to take part in the 2012 Olympic Games, I'm on the national squad.

"Before I started working this summer, I went to Europe to compete in the World Youth Championships, then to North Carolina in the US, to compete for the Bermuda Pacers Track Club — my team."

Normally, a 40-hour workweek is required of pupils and they are paid accordingly.

Also seen boarding the cruise boat with loud music pumping, was Acting Premier Paula Cox, Minister of the Environment, Telecommunications and E-commerce Neletha Butterfield.