The Department of Workforce Development recently celebrated the achievements of the 2024 Youth Employment Programme with a special reception honouring 180 participating students.
The Department’s Youth Employment Programme offers students valuable opportunities to apply their academic knowledge and gain essential work experience.
The Summer Employment Programme allows University students to complete ten weeks of hands-on work experience with a $600 weekly wage. Meanwhile, the Summer Internship Program offers high school students a $1,600 stipend upon completion of a four-week term.
Each employment opportunity aligns with the student’s academic fields, interests, and career aspirations.
These programs are designed to:
- Offer meaningful work experiences that enhance learning and foster personal and professional growth.
- Provide exposure to a range of career paths and employment opportunities.
- Cultivate leadership and decision-making skills while encouraging active citizenship and service.
- Introduce participants to career and employment competency standards.
- Support the development of career goals by connecting work experience to academic learning.
The 2024 Summer Employment Programme began on May 13, placing 100 university students in roles across government, private, and non-profit sectors. Participants from diverse academic disciplines, such as Health, Accounting, Psychology, Hospitality, Environmental Sciences, Trades, and Law, were encouraged to develop their leadership, decision-making, and career competency skills.
The Summer Internship Program started in July and placed 80 high school students. This four-week programme introduces the professional world and potential career paths. Like their university student counterparts, the high school students participated in various industries, including Information Technology, Health, Automotive, Electrical, Insurance, Administrative, Youth Development, and Legal arenas.
During the reception, the students engaged in a dynamic mock exercise titled “What Would You Do as the Government?”. Grouped into twelve Ministries, they brainstormed, researched, and presented innovative solutions, enhancing their leadership and decision-making skills.
The real-world exposure of the Youth Employment Programme helps young people understand workplace expectations and prepares them to transition from school to professional life.
Jahmir Celestine, a participant in the Summer Employment Program, expressed her gratitude:“Since I have joined the Summer Employment Program, it has helped me to learn more about myself, as well as enhance my chosen educational path of becoming a doctor. I have been afforded the opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with many people, and I look forward to potentially returning next summer.”
Joaquin O’Connor, a participant in the Summer Internship Program, shared his thoughts: “I chose The Department of Workforce Development because I think it is a great start for my future. My experience was truly different. I was in a new environment, working with good people, which taught me many lessons. I recommend everyone register with The Department of Workforce Development because it gives you a head start in your career. In addition to providing networking experiences, they also offer scholarships and help prepare you for the working world.”
Employers also expressed their appreciation for the program. Maryem Biadillah, Senior Manager of the Economic Development Department, stated, “I’m a big fan of the Youth Employment Programme and look forward to working with the team every year. Mentoring our future leaders is important – thank you for giving me the opportunity to do so.”
Reflecting on the programmes, Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, remarked, “The Youth Employment Programme is a vital launching pad for our young people, offering invaluable work experience that prepares them for future careers. Bermuda’s Youth Employment Strategy is committed to providing experiences that enhance readiness for both school and professional success. Gaining firsthand workplace experience is crucial for our youth as they transition from the classroom to the workforce, and these programmes are instrumental in achieving that goal. This initiative represents the Government’s steadfast commitment to supporting our students on their path to success.”
For more information on the Youth Employment Programmes, please visit the Department of Workforce Development online at dwd.bm.
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