A boost will be given to employers who engage inexperienced workers and youths through apprenticeships and placements with a programme of tax deductions.

According to the Government, this measure will give inexperienced workers a better chance of finding a job by providing the necessary work exposure.

The Government is also discussing with stakeholders a reform in the current apprentice system to make it more relevant to the current labour market.

Entrepreneurs who are willing to be part of the system will be given a tax deduction of €600 for every apprenticeship with a total of 800 place-ments available.

Various other training and apprentice schemes targeting young people have also been included.

Entrepreneurs who are willing to be part of the system will be given a tax deduction of €600 for every apprentice

The Institute of Tourism Studies, in collaboration with Malta Enterprise and the ETC, is launching a new course – Foundation in Tourism Studies – aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills to open their own business or become employed in the tourism sector.

In line with the EU’s Youth Employment Policy, the ETC will also launch a Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme with the aim of promoting entrepreneurship among young people. This initiative will provide training and support in preparation for entrepreneurship and setting up of cooperatives.

A separate Employment Aid Programme will also provide employment aid that covers up to half of the wages to Gozitan employers. According to the Government, the scope of this initiative is to promote the recruitment of disadvantaged and/or disabled persons.