Malta Information Technology Agency executive chairman Tony Sultana has stressed on the importance of public and private sector recruitment of students so that they get hands-on experience.
"We invite local firms to explore the possibilities of engaging skilled students to work not only on purely technical projects but also on creative small outreach projects such as training, raising awareness, or digital advertising. Every employer can tap into the Programme and benefit from an eager talent pool that is ready to actively participate in providing innovative ideas," he said.
He was speaking during the launch of MITA’s 2015 student placement programme aimed at addressing employers’ needs in terms of seeking temporary ICT-related additional resources.
Mr Sultana said this year’s programme will cost €650,000 and its aim is to fill the short-term human resources IT gap.
The programme is held in collaboration with the Parliamentary Secretariat for Competitiveness and Economic Growth.
On his part, Parliamentary Secretary Jose Herrera said that Malta, like other countries, faces skill shortages in certain sectors and this programme, which he described as being one of the best in Malta, helps fill the void.
He noted that some students were ending their educational experience without being properly prepared to work.
Government will be co-financing 50% of the salary costs for the private sector and 100% for public sector placements. The programme is also open for NGOs to participate as employers whereby government will help these organisations by co-financing the students’ salary.
Private sector employees are obliged to pay the students’ NI contributions for their 330-hours of work.
Employers who wish to extend the working period of students may do so by informing the relevant authorities and MITA. Students are typically assigned tasks related to three areas, namely business analysis, networks and software/applications development. The rate of remuneration is around €5.82per hour. Students will also be granted pro rata government bonuses, leave and sick leave.
Employers wishing to participate in this programme should apply online. MITA matches the skills of students with that of the employer’s needs and will send participating employers a list of potential candidates. Employers can then conduct interviews with the students and select the students they wish to engage.
Mr Sultana noted that last year, the private sector took in around 100 students participating in this programme.
Employers and students can apply online on www.mita.gov.mt/spp
Photos: Jonathan Borg