They launched a platform to connect young people with job opportunities and internships

The platform is part of a joint effort between the US and Mexican governments and Fundemas. / Francisco Valle

The governments of the United States and Mexico and the Business Foundation for Social Action (Fundemas) launched on Thursday a jobs platform that will facilitate internships and employment opportunities for young people.

“It is a pleasure to announce the launch of the multi-sector coalition’s ‘Jobs Ecosystem’ digital platform. We have always believed in the potential of Salvadorans, which is why the governments of the United States and Mexico have joined our efforts and have been sowing seeds of opportunity since 2021,” said William Duncan, U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador.

Duncan said that through the platform, more than 1,500 job opportunities have been provided and more than 600 young people have been able to apply.

“The creation of a digital employment platform is not only an open window to find work, but it is a guarantee and the beginning of a new future,” said Oscar de la Torre Amezcua, head of the Mexican Embassy.

Raimundo Velázquez, head of international cooperation at the Embassy of Mexico in El Salvador (Amexid), explained that the platform aims to be a connection space for young people and for companies and businesses that want to spread opportunities.

Velázquez said those interested can register on the Alianza por el Empleo platform, which offers services such as first job opportunities, job opportunities for people with experience, a job bank and options for entrepreneurs.

“(We are looking to) provide opportunities for young people through paid internships and find them formal jobs so they can stay in their country of origin and not have to immigrate.”

Raimondo Velásquez
Director of International Cooperation Department of the Mexican Embassy in China

The platform is part of the “Seedling Opportunities” initiative agreed upon by the governments of Mexico and the United States since 2021.

Avoid Migration

Yolanda Martinez, a representative of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), said the agency seeks to support young people and smallholder farmers to avoid migration and ensure they remain in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

“We believe that Salvadorans can have hope in their own country, and this platform is a tool for them to tap into their talents in El Salvador and effectively find the opportunities they need,” Martinez said.

The multi-sector alliance, called Ecosystem for Jobs, takes into account contributions from universities, foundations, trade organizations and international partners.

Fundemas executive director Haydee de Trigueros explained that the platform also has training programs in the technical field and entrepreneurial attitudes.

The platform has been launched now and people must first register and provide personal data. After that, users will be able to explore the platform and learn about job and training opportunities.

Salvadorans who enter the platform will be able to request quotes and follow up.

Fundemas recalls that the use of the website is free and supported by the institutions.

Career Fairs

At the same time as the launch, a job fair was held with the participation of 25 companies and 10 training centers. It is expected that more than 100 people will apply for offers on the day.

Ambassador Duncan said job stability is necessary for the country’s development and improvement of people’s quality of life.

Fundemas held a job fair with the US and Mexican governments. / Francisco Valle

Tomás Regalado, president of Fundemas, recalled that previous studies showed that only 16 out of every 100 young people born in Salvador had a “decent” job.

Regalado said the goal is to create an “employment ecosystem” where different platforms come together to offer opportunities.