The Ministry for Gozo and Planning has launched the 2025 edition of the Work Trial Scheme for Youths, offering Gozitan students aged 16 to 20 a unique opportunity to gain hands-on work experience this summer.
The government said that the initiative, which runs from Monday, 4 August to Friday, 5 September 2025, aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by placing participants in private companies and NGO's across the island.
Successful applicants will earn €115 per week for a maximum of five weeks, totalling up to €575. The scheme targets young people eager to explore potential career paths, develop practical workplace skills, and build confidence in a structured and supportive environment.
Online applications will open on Monday, 30 June and will remain available until Friday, 4 July. Interested individuals can access the application from via the Ministry's official website.
During the official launch, Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri emphasised the scheme's importance in empowering young people and preparing them for the realities of the labour market. "We strongly believe in Gozitan youths and in all that they are capable of. With this scheme, we want to offer work experience in a safe environment, where young people can discover their potential, learn and strengthen their skills," the Minister said.
Camilleri further noted that the programme is not only educational but also designed to help young people make informed decisions about their future career choices. The experience of working within various sectors enables participants to explore professional fields that align with their interests and aptitudes.
First launched seven years ago, the scheme has seen continuous refinement, based on feedback from both participants and host organisations. This iterative approach, according to the Minister, has led to tangible improvements in how the scheme operates, ensuring it remains relevant, accessible, and beneficial for all involved.
"The feedback from previous participants and employers has been invaluable. It has allowed us to adjust and grow the scheme to better serve the needs of today's youth," Camilleri added. He reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to enhancing the initiative in the years to come.
The scheme's dual focus on skill development and youth empowerment aligns with broader efforts by the Ministry to strengthen the foundations of Gozo's future workforce. By involving the private and voluntary sectors, the programme also fosters a culture of collaboration and social responsibility among local organisations.