The Grafton Employment Group is serving up its Switch On programme to final year students at Colleges NI, to help them prepare for the world of work.
The initiative is currently operating across Northern Ireland, providing interactive and practical master class clinics on CV and interview preparation and interpreting job descriptions to over 300 students.
The Switch On programme was launched to help students enhance employability skills and tackle one of the key challenges facing the economy today – youth unemployment.
Currently in Northern Ireland, one in five 18 to 24-year-olds are unable to find work and youth unemployment levels are almost 2.5 times higher than the local unemployment rate.
As well as improving students’ employability skills, this initiative provides an opportunity for them to come together to discuss employment issues. Students also receive CV and interview advice with practical guidance and tips on ‘Switching On’ their confidence when applying for jobs and attending interviews.
Gale Sergeant, CSR manager for the Grafton Employment Group said: “Employers are being more selective and candidates will have to work harder to market themselves and showcase their talents. Through this initiative, the Grafton Employment Group and Colleges NI aim to ultimately support a movement of partnership working between education and commerce with the aim of making a real difference in the economic landscape in Northern Ireland.
“Understanding how to prepare your CV and for interview as well as promoting ‘soft’ transferrable and technical skills confidently and professionally can make a massive difference to career prospects.”
Gerry Campbell, chief executive with Colleges NI, commented on the initiative: “Our six regional colleges deliver quality education and learning opportunities to thousands of people across Northern Ireland every year. These college graduates will go on to shape the future of Northern Ireland. They are the makers and doers of our society who have a pivotal role to play in rebuilding the economy. They are the engine house of future economic growth.
“We are delighted to be working on this initiative. It underlines our commitment to working with industry and business to ensure that college graduates have the skills and the knowhow we need.”