JEF Urged to Help Prepare Youth for Job Market

State Minister in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, Hon. Floyd Green, is calling for greater collaboration between the Ministry and the Jamaica Employers’ Federation (JEF) to provide career guidance for the nation’s youth.

Mr. Green, who was speaking at the media launch for the JEF’s National Employers’ Month celebrations at the Federation’s offices in Kingston, said the partnership will better assist the Ministry to equip young people to meet the demands of the workplace.

“You are well placed to say to the Education Ministry, we need you to go in this direction.  As business people, you have to be ahead of the curve because you have to be constantly researching the trends to stay relevant. As such, you should be able to tell us, far in advance, the skills we will need to have for the professions that will be in demand in 10 years so we can put the proper systems in place,” he said.

The State Minister hailed the country’s employers, noting that they play a key role in economic growth. “Your role is (essential) in our drive towards prosperity,” he said.

National Employers’ Month seeks to highlight the work of employers and recognise their contribution to national development.

President of the JEF, David Wan, said activities this year will focus on workplace wellness.

“We are focusing on the employers’ vision and strategy to facilitate the conditions for a decent work (environment) for employees under the International Labour Organization (ILO)-developed best practices and standards,” he informed.

The celebrations commenced on August 28 with a church service at the Waltham Park New Testament Church of God.

Activities continue on September 8 with a members meeting/Tax Forum Seminar on September 8; Chief Executive Officers (CEO) breakfast on September 13; leadership seminar on September 15; an in-chambers session on September 21 to discuss ratification of the ILO Convention 189, which stipulates safeguards for the welfare of household workers.

A special members meeting will be held on September 27; and a members forum on September 28. The activities culminate on September 30 with a ‘Connect and Celebrate’ function.

The JEF is the sole trade union representing employers in Jamaica.