Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1531100
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 5 JANUARY 2025 7 COMMERCIAL APS Bank embraces the spirit of giving APS Bank offices and branch- es are once again adorned with Christmas trees and decora- tions of various kinds. The festive ambience is enhanced with an abundance of poinset- tia plants, purchased in aid of Hospice Malta. This year, the Bank engaged Fondazzjoni Sebħ to create a festive window display for APS Hub in St Julian's. The nativi- ty scene on display was creat- ed by residents from Il-Milja, a shelter for female survivors of violence and their children. This NGO strives to nurture an environment for growth, re- covery and fulfilment, ensuring the dignity and value of each individual, child and family for a more inclusive society. The Bank also made a financial con- tribution to support the Foun- dation's work. Rachael Blackburn, Head of Culture at APS Bank, ex- pressed, "These collaborative initiatives underscore APS Bank's unwavering commit- ment to fostering a sense of community and supporting meaningful causes during this special time of year." National Skills Council launches the National Career Guidance Network THE National Skills Council proudly announced the launch of the National Career Guidance Network (NCGN) during an event held today at its headquar- ters in Pembroke. This initiative brings together career guidance service providers in Malta, aim- ing to empower individuals with the career management skills needed to navigate their career paths confidently and effectively. During the launch, the OECD Country Note on Teenage Ca- reer Aspirations in Malta was un- veiled, a collaborative project led by the National Skills Council and the OECD. The Country Note provides invaluable insights into the career development activities and aspirations of 15-year-olds in Malta, highlighting the impor- tance of bridging the gap between students' expectations and the re- alities of the labour market. Dr Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando, Ex- ecutive Chairman of the Nation- al Skills Council, highlighted the significance of the NCGN, stat- ing: The launch of the National Career Guidance Network marks a pivotal moment for career guid- ance in Malta. Through the NCGN, the Na- tional Skills Council is ensur- ing individuals of all ages are equipped to navigate their career paths confidently, while fostering collaboration across the sector to meet the demands of a dynamic labour market. The OECD Country Note re- veals key findings, including: Strengths: High ambition for professional careers: A significant majority (73%) of students in Malta aspire to pro- fessional or managerial roles, sur- passing the OECD average of 58%. This ambition is particularly strong among girls, high performers, and students in independent schools, reflecting a culture of high educa- tional and career expectations. Equity in career development participation: Disadvantaged students in Mal- ta engage in career development activities at rates comparable to or higher than their advantaged peers, an uncommon trend across OECD countries. Engagement with career advisors in Malta is also high by international stand- ards, although girls are less likely to participate in experiential ca- reer activities. Challenges: Misalignment between career aspirations and labour market realities: While 68% of students aim for professional roles, such as a doc- tor, lawyer or engineer, these roles account for only 20% of jobs in Malta's labour market. This misalignment creates risks of un- met expectations and challenges during employment transitions. Low participation in experiential career activities: Engagement in hands-on activ- ities like internships, job shadow- ing, and workplace visits remains notably lower in Malta compared to OECD averages. These activ- ities are critical for helping stu- dents explore career options and gain practical insights into the labour market. (Refer to Figures 1 and 2 for detailed data). Andreas Schleicher, Director of Education and Skills, Organisa- tion for Economic Cooperation and Development stated that: The career expectations of students in Malta poorly reflect actual pat- terns of demand for employment. While the data highlights real strengths in the Maltese guidance system, it also illustrates an im- portant weakness: much greater engagement of employers in guid- ance will help students to develop broader and more informed un- derstanding of the labour market and their potential roles within it. Clayton Micallef Grimaud, Chairperson of the NCGN, em- phasised the importance of col- laboration, stating: The National Career Guidance Network rep- resents a collective commitment to empower individuals with the skills and guidance they need to make informed career decisions. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we are creating a unified approach to career man- agement that aligns with national and global priorities. The NCGN is the latest achieve- ment in the Council's mission to address Malta's skills challenges. The OECD's Country Note on Teenage Career Development in Malta can be accessed here: Teenage Career Development in Malta.