Training And Courses For Members OF Local Councils

Elected members and employees of Local Councils have begun receiving specialised training aimed at supporting them in their work. This training started last year following the launch of the National Strategy for Training in the Local Government Sector, and on Wednesday morning the first certificates were awarded to those who successfully completed their respective courses.

The training is being delivered through European funding from the European Social Fund. The programme is being led by the National Training Council in the field of Local Government, which is composed of the Institute for the Public Service, the Local Government Directorate, the Local Councils’ Association, and the Association of Executive Secretaries of Local Councils.

The Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Manifesto, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, stated that this training, co-financed by European funds, represents a direct investment in our communities through the strengthening of human resources in Local Government.

He explained that the project has a total value of approximately €600,000, of which around €530,000 is financed through European funds, demonstrating a clear commitment to improving services at the local level. He emphasised that every opportunity for training and development contributes to a stronger, more professional and efficient service for citizens.

The Minister also noted that this project is expanding the experience of councillors and employees through training, study visits and practical experiences both locally and abroad, ensuring that Local Councils continue to strengthen their day to day operations.

For her part, the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, said that this is a concrete way in which the Government is recognising the importance of human resources within Local and Regional Councils. She stated that investment in human resources is essential to ensure a trained workforce that places the citizen at the centre of its work.

“Employment within Local Councils has become a career, and therefore these courses will strengthen the position of employees and councillors. This exercise is another means of encouraging more people from our communities to pursue a career in Local Government. Workers have always been at the heart of this Government, and the investment we make in them reflects our appreciation for the daily service they provide to citizens. In fact, strengthening human resource competencies helps council officials deliver a better, more professional and efficient service to our communities,” said the Parliamentary Secretary.

The Parliamentary Secretary concluded by stating that this also aligns with Vision Malta 2050, as this initiative is helping to develop a workforce equipped with skills that are relevant to the needs of society.

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