Bridge to Work youth programme set to expand
A pilot programme helping young people transition from training to jobs will be expanded into a year-round scheme.
Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, told the House of Assembly that the expansion came after 14 participants joined structured, paid short-term placements with 12 local employers.
Eight got job offers after their placement, while 75 per cent met or exceeded expectations.
He added: “Bridge to Work was specifically designed to close the gap between certification and full-time employment, offering mentorship, soft skills development, and structured exposure to workplace standards.”
Mr Hayward said other plans for 2026 included strengthening pathways into trades, hospitality and digital literacy, expanding graduate apprenticeship opportunities and deepening employer onboarding and mentorship frameworks to improve retention and long-term hiring.
In 2025, more than 320 young Bermudians engaged in Youth Employment Strategy programmes, including internships, apprenticeships, job readiness training and tailored career services.
He said 72 high school students participated in summer internships while 100 college and university students joined the summer employment programme with 32 employers.
Another seven joined the Learning Through Experience hospitality segment, with three securing full-time employment.
Collaboration with the Gang Violence Reduction Team led to one participant securing employment, while another is progressing towards certification in heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
He said two thirds of the 182 young people to take part in job readiness workshops were employed within three months of completion.
• To see Mr Hayward’s full statement, see Related Media
You must be Registered or to post comment or to vote.
