NCW annual conference

As part of its anniversary celebrations, the NCW organised a conference to debate the issue of how employers, employees and the state can make the most of the island's most critical resource, the workforce.

The seminar, addressed by Dolores Cristina, Minister for the Family and Social Solidarity, and by Grace Attard, NCW president, was organised in collaboration with the Malta Employer's Association (MEA) and the Foundation for Human Resources Development (FHRD) and supported by the British High Commission.

A distinguished panel of speakers, including Arthur Muscat, president of the Malta Employers' Association and Dr Janet Mifsud, chairperson, Commission for the Promotion of Equality between Men and Women, debated how employers and employees can place further effort in developing the potential of all the workforce, of understanding the challenges different people face in developing a career and pursuing their development while also fulfilling responsibilities at home.

The discussion also focused on the particular challenges facing women in advancing their careers while fulfilling other responsibilities. Claudine Cassar talked about her experience as entrepreneur and mother. This promoted further debate in workshops led by Gloria Galea Seychell from Appogg, Dr Roselyn Borg of the MEA and John Muscat Drago, president FHRD. An overview of the employment situation in Malta and planned national initiatives by Sue Vella, general manager strategy of the Employment and Training Corporation was also given.

Dr Val Singh, senior research fellow in organisational behaviour, Centre for Developing Women Business Leaders at Cranfield School of Management, UK, who came over specifically for the seminar, addressed the theme of diversity, focusing on the challenge not only of women but also of minority groups, leaders and employers.

The NCW will be collating the proceedings of the conference and presenting a working document to Minister Cristina.