Barcelos employment fair focuses on youth training and autonomy

The fifth edition of the ‘Grow Your Skills Up’ employment fair has concluded in Barcelos, Portugal. Held at the Polytechnic University of Cávado and Ave (UPCA) campus and the Casa da Juventude, the three-day event focused on employability, training, and connecting young people with the labor market.

Local official Carlos Eduardo Reis emphasized that training, employment, and housing are critical pillars for youth autonomy. He advocated for long-term strategies to attract investment alongside the creation of quality jobs and competitive salaries to encourage workers to remain in the municipality. The program featured workshops, rapid interviews, and direct contact with companies, including a dedicated gaming space. The event was organized through a partnership involving the Barcelos Municipality, UPCA, the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP), and the Academic Association.