Summer job applicants up 29 percent

The Job Training Partnership Act has recorded a 29 percent growth in the number of participants to its Summer Youth Employment and Training Program versus the number of students the summer program drew last year.

Gathering a total of 522 applicants, JTPA Executive Director Felix Nogis said the figure was the highest recorded by the employment agency so far. The number even exceeded the 400 slots JTPA advertised for Saipan, Rota, and Tinian residents collectively.

Last year, some 405 students both from the high and low-income families took part in the summer-long program.

JTPA is pleased with the high turnout this year, according to Mr. Nogis, citing that today’s youths are developing more interest in acquiring skills to prepare themselves for the challenges of the future.

“This is a good result because students are actually out there seeking jobs. We are very fortunate that we have availability of funds to support the students enrolled in the program,” said Mr. Nogis.

He added that the agency took in every student who applied for summer jobs. Out of the 300 available slots for Saipan residents, 394 students were absorbed. On Tinian, applications exceeded its quota of 50 as 66 students signed up. On Rota, 62 out of the 50 needed trainees were admitted to take on summer jobs.

This year, more private establishments expressed desire to take in youth trainees compared to previous years, according to Mr. Nogis.

Meanwhile, JTPA is also appealing for the community’s support in assisting fresh high school graduates retain a job in private businesses even after the training period is up.

Mr. Nogis said the private sector should consider accommodating seniors under an on-the-job training contract where JTPA and the company can split trainees’ wages 50-50.

“This is an available option for the private sector. We could start with 100 percent JTPA subsidy and eventually work our way to 50 percent. Many students are willing to acquire job skills, so they can be placed on a full-time basis,” he said.

The executive director also emphasized that given the present economic situation, close collaboration with the private sector is a better alternative instead of further burdening the financially-troubled government.

Under the ongoing summer program, student participants will each be paid $3.50 an hour for six straight weeks starting yesterday.
During the course of the training, students will be assessed on their performance by both company owners and JTPA.

JTPA case managers will conduct rounds every other day to keep track of the students’ progress while on the job. Trainees who completes the summer training will be given certificates. (MM)