Greater support to help young people into work
Orientation sessions in senior schools and a pathway to help vulnerable young people return to training and work are among the latest plans for the Government’s youth employment strategy.
Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, told the House of Assembly today that “steady and measurable strides” in reducing youth unemployment were made since the scheme was introduced in 2022.
He explained: “The strategy was designed with clear goals — to increase training opportunities, expand apprenticeships, promote access to labour market information and provide holistic support for vulnerable youth.
“I am pleased to report that we are delivering on those commitments.”
In an update on achievements, MPs heard that the Learning Through Experience hospitality programme provided seven young Bermudians with hands-on experience in the tourism sector.
Mr Hayward said: “Of the four participants within the 18 to 26 age group, three gained full-time employment.
“This outcome not only speaks to the quality of the training but affirms the potential of experiential learning to open doors for our youth.
“Through our partnership with the Gang Violence Reduction Team, two young men received structured, one-on-one support.
“One is now employed with Marine and Ports and on the path to becoming a ferry pilot, the other is preparing for entry into the heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry — otherwise known as the HVAC industry.
“We also completed phase 1 of our expanded apprenticeship programme — 12 active apprentices now advancing in masonry, carpentry and plumbing — fields critical to Bermuda’s infrastructure and sustainability.”
He told the House: “These achievements are not without challenges. We acknowledge that maintaining youth engagement post-programme, ensuring placements in emerging industries and addressing emotional and logistical barriers for vulnerable clients require sustained attention.
“To this end, the [workforce development] department is developing post-programme engagement tools, expanding industry partnerships and scaling wraparound support services.”
Mr Hayward added: “In the coming quarter, we will launch and promote the new Bermuda Job Connect platform to enhance visibility of local employment opportunities, deliver orientation sessions in our public senior schools to prepare graduating students for workforce entry, and roll out the Bridge to Work programme to assist justice-involved and vulnerable youth with re-entry into training and employment.”
He said: “Our young people are not statistics. They are future homeowners, innovators and community leaders.
“Through this strategy, we affirm this Government’s commitment to ensuring that every young Bermudian has a pathway to sustainable employment and economic independence.”
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