350 persons with disability benefit from ESF-funded project

The project, 'Me2! - Integration of persons with disability into the labour market', aims to support persons with disability to expand their opportunities within the labour market and gain additional skills that assist them in living independently.

The project was held in collaboration with the National Commission for Persons with a Disability (KNPD) and the Employment and Training Corporations (ETC).

“Through the participation and contribution of persons with disability, society as a whole is enriched and such project strives to advocate and promote such involvement,” CEO of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services, Sina Bugeja said.

In addition, the project aims to improve the relationship between employers and persons with a disability, with the ultimate goal to prevent these persons from being socially excluded.

During the mid-term conference a number of issues were discussed, providing the opportunity to discuss and focus on enhancing the opportunities of persons with disability into the labour market.

Agenzija Sapport said it has exceeded its expectations, with the target of 230 participants surpassed by 120.

“Currently there are 8 project participants benefiting from Job Exposure, with the help of the Malta Information Technology Agency (MITA), H.H. Ltd, Hetronic Malta, and ST Microelectronics,” the Agency said. “This is being done with a training aid of €2.93 per hour, for a maximum of 320 hours.”

The Agency also stressed that further discussions for possible placements are being done with other entities.

In the meantime, training sessions are being carried out with project participants. Topics dealt include: money management, basic cooking skills, balanced diets, safeguarding their rights, preparing for an interview and relationship building amongst others.