They start tomorrow, Wednesday 30 October the applications for the Tourism Voucher where provides up to 2,500 euros for unemployed people or employed in the Tourism sector (including catering).
Eligible providers of subsidized Continuing Professional Training (SEK) provide the theoretical training services within the meaning of No. 65809/12.07.2022 (B’ 3703) of the Decision of the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, ie through licensed Centers for Lifelong Learning (KDVM) or through Training and Lifelong Learning Centers (KEDI .BIM) of the AEI community
In the context of the implementation of the programs, access to appropriate digital educational content will be provided, using asynchronous distance education technologies, which will include specific teaching and/or thematic modules. The educational material will be posted on the special website https://www.voucher.gov.gr for the information of training providers, and in relation to their use.
What does the Tourism Voucher include?
- Education allowance 1,250 euros (€5 / training hour, non-binding) up to 2,500 euros if you get a 2nd plan
- Free online training 250 hours in an optional seminar, available 24/7 on the platform
- Free certificate from a recognized body
How many and who will be involved in the program
The Beneficiary Register will reach 20,000 people who will train and receive the allowance in their bank accounts. After the training they will do a Certification.
The content of the training
- Reception services and digital skills.
- Nutrition and food hygiene and safety.
- Culinary art and pastry.
- Roofing services and environmental management
- Recreational Tourism Outdoor Activities Animator.
- Bath Services/Thalassotherapy – SPA.
- Executive of the Tourist Offices.
Who can participate?
Beneficiaries with at least two hundred (200) daily wages in the past ten years in the tourism sector or in a specialty related to the training specialty and belonging to one of the following categories are eligible to participate:
(a) Seasonal workers of tourism businesses
(b) Temporary unemployed and long-term unemployed in the tourism sector
(c) Employees of tourism businesses, whose employment contracts were suspended, in the years 2020 and/or 2021, due to a temporary interruption or temporary suspension of the operations of the businesses in which they worked, in the context of taking measures to prevent and dealing with the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Submit an application HERE
Interview between Alex Turner, Editor of Time.news, and Dr. Maria Koula, Tourism and Education Expert
Alex Turner: Welcome, Dr. Koula. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the upcoming launch of the Tourism Voucher program. There’s a lot of excitement surrounding this initiative. Can you give us an overview of what the Tourism Voucher entails?
Dr. Maria Koula: Absolutely, Alex. The Tourism Voucher program is a fantastic initiative designed to support unemployed individuals as well as those currently employed in the tourism sector, which includes catering services. Starting from October 30, applicants can receive up to 2,500 euros to undergo professional training. The goal is to enhance skills and boost employability in a recovering tourism industry.
Alex Turner: That’s a generous amount. Could you break down what participants can expect from the training they’ll receive under this program?
Dr. Maria Koula: Certainly! The voucher provides participants with an education allowance of 1,250 euros, which can double to 2,500 euros if they enroll in a second training plan. Additionally, they will have access to 250 hours of free online training through a flexible seminar format that’s available 24/7. This means they can learn at their own pace, which is crucial for working individuals. Also, upon completion, they will receive a free certificate from a recognized body, allowing them to showcase their new skills.
Alex Turner: That sounds incredibly beneficial, especially given the accessibility of online learning. How are participants supposed to find and access the training materials?
Dr. Maria Koula: Great question! The educational content will be hosted on a dedicated website, voucher.gov.gr, where training providers will share information and resources. This includes specific teaching modules that utilize asynchronous distance education technologies, making it easier for participants to engage with the material on their schedule.
Alex Turner: With such a structured program, how many individuals are expected to benefit from this initiative?
Dr. Maria Koula: The program aims to benefit around 20,000 individuals. This scale is significant because it not only supports those directly involved in tourism but also invigorates the broader economy as these individuals upskill and potentially re-enter the workforce.
Alex Turner: The broader economic impact indeed sounds promising. Given the current climate, how important do you think this initiative is for the tourism sector?
Dr. Maria Koula: The tourism sector has been hit hard recently, and this program is vital for recovery. By investing in human capital through training, we prepare a skilled workforce that can meet the evolving demands of the industry. It’s an opportunity for workers to pivot and adapt, which is essential for a resilient tourism infrastructure.
Alex Turner: It sounds like a proactive step towards recovery. If someone wants to apply, what should they do starting tomorrow?
Dr. Maria Koula: Interested applicants can visit the website voucher.gov.gr for all the necessary information and application procedures. It’s crucial for them to act quickly since the program is expected to draw a lot of attention.
Alex Turner: Thank you, Dr. Koula, for this insightful discussion. The Tourism Voucher program certainly seems like a significant opportunity for many. We look forward to seeing how it unfolds and impacts the sector!
Dr. Maria Koula: Thank you for having me, Alex! I share your enthusiasm and hope to see many individuals benefit from this initiative.
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Alex Turner: This is Time.news, where we bring you the latest updates in industry developments. Stay tuned for more.