Asylum seekers get job skills training

About 107 asylum seekers have completed a training course in skills aimed at improving their employability and integration in society.

The training programme is an Equal project funded by the European Union and coordinated by Agenzija Appogg. It provides training to asylum seekers in English, life and job interview skills.

The project partners, Appogg, Dar Il-Qawsalla and Dar is-Sliem along with training providers Employment and Training Corporation, Red Cross and the General Workers' Union, extended their service to cater for more asylum seekers than originally planned.

Petra Van Nierop, a delegate from GHK Consultancy in Brussels, was here to hold interviews with all stakeholders and report back on the success of the project.

Addressing the course participants and partners, Joe Gerada, Foundation for Social Welfare Services CEO said these certificates are important keys to a better future for asylum seekers.

Imparting knowledge about local traditions, culture and services will enable the asylum seeker to integrate and participate in the life of the country.

This participation can only serve the country well because it brings down barriers of wrong perceptions and enhances peaceful and rewarding co-existence, he said.

Furthermore, integration enables the asylum seeker to demonstrate his or her native culture and, therefore, increase the understanding and appreciation of other cultures.

Agenzija Appogg, which also delivers services to asylum seekers through an open centre, is the local partner within the Equal project.

The agency covers both the basic needs and the social needs of these individuals, to help them meet their needs with dignity and respect.