The Human Employment and Resource Training (HEART) Trust/National Training Agency (NTA) is accepting applications for this year’s Graduate Work Experience Programme (GWEP), formerly implemented under the National Youth Service.

Acting senior director of Community Service at HEART Trust/NTA Ronique Rhoden said the programme is targeting 500 graduates of tertiary institutions this year, who will be given the opportunity to gain experience that is critical to their career development.

She explained that the application process, which is ongoing throughout the year, is open to young people between 17 and 29 years of age and persons living with disabilities who are between 17 and 34 years old.

Applicants should possess at least a National Vocational Qualification of Jamaica level four certification from the HEART Trust/NTA, or an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, or equivalent certification from University Council of Jamaica-accredited tertiary institutions.

GWEP will place successful applicants within public and private-sector entities where they will be exposed to six months of work experience and receive a fortnightly stipend of $19,100. Participants are also required to engage in volunteerism during the internship period.

Rhoden pointed out that the HEART Trust/NTA is also looking for placement sites and is, therefore, encouraging corporate Jamaica to facilitate these graduates as they seek to gain well-needed work experience.

Interested graduates are required to submit a completed application form along with proof of qualification, Tax Registration Number, National Insurance Scheme number, birth certificate, any government or school-issued identification card, and one passport-size photograph no more than six months old to the HEART Trust/NTA.

GWEP provides an opportunity for valuable practical work experience, personal development, career development, networking and increased employment prospects for the participants, said Rhoden.

— JIS