The Chores Corps Programme, which ran successfully for eight weeks last year, will be extended to 15 weeks, and the scheme will be administered by the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Recreation.

Applicants this year will be required to attend a one-day workshop, where leading business and professional people will advise them on applying for and getting jobs.

Resume writing, marketing skills and interview techniques will be some of the topics covered at a workshop on Saturday, May 28, at the Hamilton Princess Hotel. Presenters will include Mr. Kevin Grant, Ms Kim Wilkinson, Ms Carla Williams, Mr. Peter Sousa, and Dr. Ewart Brown.

Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation, the Hon. Pamela Gordon noted that last year's Chores Corps provided jobs for young people aged 17 to 21. This year the focus would be on Bermudian college and university students. A special programme for secondary school students will be offered at the end of the school term.

The workshop has been added because an assessment of last year's programme indicated that there was a need for emphasis on the development and training of the students.

All applicants are not guaranteed a job, but the workshop will provide important skills for each applicant's future.

Chores Corps aims to place about 200 students. Registration for the scheme runs from Monday, May 16 until Friday, May 20 at the Ministry's offices.

The scheme is open only to Bermudians and proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or Immigration Department letter) will be required, along with proof that the applicant is a student.

Employers with summer employment openings are asked to contact Ms Zolee Davis at 295-6081.

"We are very sympathetic to our young people who have difficulties paying for their higher education,'' the Minister said. "The Chores Corps programme is an invaluable aid to students and we will be helping our young people in more ways than one.''