An apprenticeship programme run by the Government exceeds international standards, the Minister of Economy and Labour said.

Jason Hayward made the announcement today after the International Labour Organisation carried out an assessment of the Department of Workforce Development’s scheme.

The ILO sets global standards for labour-related issues to promote decent work and employment opportunities worldwide.

A government spokesman said the department was “pleased to report that the ILO found our apprenticeship programme aligns with the foundational principles outlined in the Quality Apprenticeships Recommendation, 2023 (No 208), adopted at the 111th International Labour Conference”.

He added: “Bermuda's apprenticeship programme not only meets but exceeds the recommended standards, reflecting the commitment to fostering a robust and equitable workforce development system.”

Mr Hayward said he was “proud” of the verdict, adding: “Our commitment to continuous improvement is evident through fruitful collaborations with the ILO, particularly in certifying prior learning and exploring apprenticeships in the blue and green economy.

“By actively participating in the ILO Skills Fair on Quality Apprenticeships, we emphasise transparency, collaboration and the pursuit of a skilled and adaptable workforce.

“The recent legislative milestones further solidify our dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion.

“Bermuda's apprenticeship programme not only meets but exceeds ILO guidelines, embodying a forward-looking approach that aligns seamlessly with our national strategies for youth empowerment, workforce development and economic growth."

According to a government statement, the Department of Workforce Development has teamed up with the ILO “to explore apprenticeships in the blue and green economy”.

It said: “This strategic collaboration acknowledges the transformative potential of apprenticeships in emerging sectors, aligning workforce development with environmental and economic sustainability goals.

“The partnership reflects a forward-looking approach that anticipates the future skill needs of the labour market and aligns with the Economic Development Strategy focus on growth opportunities and new industries.”

Department staff will be taking part in an online quality apprenticeships skills fair next month “to engage with stakeholders, share best practices and foster dialogue around the importance of quality apprenticeships in shaping a skilled and adaptable workforce”, the statement said.

Ilca Webster, a skills and lifelong learning specialist at the Decent Work Team of the ILO Caribbean Office, cited Bermuda’s apprenticeship programme as a well-built example of quality apprenticeships in the region.

She said: “Based on strong social dialogue, a solid regulatory framework, inclusiveness, relevance to the labour market and the continuous engagement of numerous stakeholders who have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, they are key to improve labour-market prospects for youth while developing high-level skills identified by employers as necessary to support increased growth and productivity.”