Around 20 students from various schools and institutions pondering about a career in IT recently attended a YouthSpark Live event hosted by Microsoft Malta and Aiesec at the Microsoft Innovation Centre.
Students participated in panel discussions, workshops, micro-mentoring sessions and talks. The event focused on three primary pillars, namely employment, careers in technology and entrepreneurship, with sessions highlighting the importance of technology and how students can benefit from programmes and resources.
“Microsoft in Malta is aware that a key challenges we are facing is that of making youths employable within the current job market. There exist many roles that need to be filled. However, youths need to make sure that they equip themselves with the necessary skills to be able to fill such roles,” said Microsoft Malta country manager Adrianna Zammit.
She commended the students for their interest and for taking an active approach to this educational and mentoring event.
“The opportunities are all there and companies like Microsoft are investing a lot of resources in today’s students. We are putting a lot of effort into making technology and expertise available to all those who want to learn more, and students should consider themselves lucky to be able to come here and enjoy unlimited information and resources,” she said.
Joseph Woods, a creative thinking speaker at the event, said it was a pleasure and an inspiration to have played a part. “Truth be told, the spark has also hit me and I am now full of ideas.”
Student and event host Niki Debono expressed her satisfaction at having been an active part of the YouthSpark event. “It truly was an incredible experience and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity.”
Panelist and Aiesec member Elizabeth Pulo said she felt the event had broadened her horizons and knowledge on existing opportunities in the job market.
“As soon as Microsoft approached Aiesec to help it organise the event, I knew it would leave an impact on all those involved. Today’s market competition is increasing and opportunities like these are what makes a difference,” said AnnMarie Mangion from Aiesec.
Microsoft Malta citizenship manager Angela Micallef, who organised the event, said today’s youths were faced with countless opportunities that required them to make a number of important decisions.
“This is why when we host these events, we are constantly joining forces with local industry leaders to provide the support needed to make sure youths don’t miss out on opportunities,” Ms Micallef said.