ESF 2.65: Training Aid Framework

The TAF will support undertakings to provide training to their workforce by offering the opportunity of part refund of training costs to undertakings. The aid will depend on the size of the undertaking and the type of training provided. Such training can be either general or specific to the undertaking. The TAF is intended to promote the concept of training amongst undertakings (employers) by providing assistance in the form of a training grant that will be reimbursed to the undertaking on successful completion of the training. This aid will be made available to all non-public entities, excluding support to farmers, fishermen and related co-operatives.

Training has positive effects on society as a whole, since it increases the pool of skilled workers from which other firms can benefit from, improves the competitiveness of industry and plays an important role in the employment strategy. Recognising the need for lifelong learning, the Training Aid Framework is intended to: promote access to training of persons actively participating in the Maltese labour market; increase and/or improve the qualifications of persons employed; enable undertakings to modernise, become more productive and competitive through the development of skills, qualifications and knowledge.

TAF will contribute to: 1. train a number of persons employed in the private sector; 2. make undertakings more competitive, flexible and innovative; 3. sustain competition of the local industry; 4. upgrade the local workforce 's knowledge, qualifications, and competences; 5. awareness in the benefits of lifelong learning; further the professionalism of the local training providers services; 6. increase the competition of the small and medium undertakings over large organisations; 7. increase the employability of individuals; 8. instil a learning culture in the private sector, especially within small organisations. It is estimated that around 3,500 trainees will be benefiting from the programme throughout the life cycle of the programme. It is anticipated that these trainees will derive from 475 different applications from entities eligible for training aid.

TAF will encourage entrepreneurs to invest in the development of their human resources through training. The investment will lead to a more knowledgably and skilled workforce for the undertaking and in some instances to the pool of individuals available for the local and the European labour market. The undertaking's human resources upgrading, will give the undertaking the flexibility to change, progress, conduct development and the possibility to research and market into the new ventures and products. A more skilled workforce will also lead to further enhancement of the labour market in general. Individuals participating in training can also progress their status and/or consolidate their position with the sector.