The Ministry of Education has officially launched the National Skills Council to help address the skill issues related to education and employment.
In a press conference held at the Ministry this afternoon, Evarist Bartolo explained that the aim of this council is to integrate older workers, women and young graduates into the labour market. He said that this stems from the fact that there needs to be a stronger link between education and employment.
"Through this document Malta will be joining the EU in the commitment to address the challenges of ensuring a fully equipped labour force, not necessarily with qualifications, but with skills that respond to the challenges of technological progress," Mr Bartolo said.
The council coincides with the Framework for the Educational Strategy for Malta between the year 2014 and 2024.
The Council will be tasked with providing recommendations to the ministry based on evidence gathered in Malta. It is also expected to act as a broker between employers and education providers.
Asked by this newspaper regarding which particular skills are lacking, the Minister said that the issue is with the basic skills, related to simple communication or one's ability to work with others. Professor Joe Cilia will head the Council together with Dr Alex Grech as Deputy Chairperson.