Helping Seniors Return to the Workplace: Registration Opens for Senior Vocational Training Classes by the Central Changhua-Nantou Branch

(Central News Agency reporter Hao Xueqing, Taichung, 9th) To assist unemployed individuals aged 65 and over in developing a second specialty, the Workforce Development Agency's Central Changhua-Nantou Branch announced today that registration for senior-specific vocational training courses has begun. Training fees are fully subsidized, and classes will start at the end of June.

The Central Changhua-Nantou Branch explained in a press release that the historical average employment rate for these senior-specific classes is over 70%, showing that many seniors are re-entering the workforce or developing a second specialty through vocational training.

The branch stated that at the end of June, it will launch the "Commercial Floral and Plant Design Application Class" and the "Senior Craftsmanship Skills Development Class." In September, it will offer the "Clothing Accessories Design and Sewing Class" and the "Integrated Baking and Food Service Practice Class." Any unemployed person aged 65 or over can register for training. Through customized training that meets market demands, they can cultivate practical skills and employability. If there are vacancies in the courses, they will also be opened to the general unemployed public.

The branch cited the example of trainee Xiuhua. She saw the recruitment information for the senior-specific class on Facebook and signed up for the "Commercial Floral and Small Plant Design Class," learning step-by-step from plant care and floral design to product creation. The instructor recognized her sensitivity to floral art and creative talent from her work.

After graduation, Xiuhua and several other trainees co-founded the "Green Fingers Happy Aging Workshop." They have participated in events like the Wude Market and Lulu Market to sell their floral works and have been invited multiple times to serve as floral art instructors. She happily said she never imagined having the chance to stand on a podium in her old age, and it gives her a great sense of achievement. She will continue her studies, hoping to become a professional floral art teacher in the future.

The branch stated that in addition to vocational training, it also encourages seniors to utilize services provided by the "Central Changhua-Nantou Senior Talent Resource Center," such as career counseling, job readiness preparation, and job redesign. These services can help seniors continue to leverage their expertise and experience, creating more possibilities in the second half of their lives. (Editor: Zhang Mingkun) 1150609