Mauritius Job Fair Attracts 35,000 Seekers, 20,000 Already Employed

Labour Minister Reza Uteem disclosed today that out of approximately 35,000 registered job seekers in Mauritius, around 20,000 are already employed but seeking improved opportunities, particularly in the public sector. The announcement was made during the second edition of the Job and Training Fair, held at Victoria Urban Terminal in Port-Louis, following a successful first event in Grand-Baie.

Bridging the Gap Between Employers and Job Seekers

The fair, organized by the Ministry of Labour, serves as an informal yet effective platform for direct recruitment, connecting employers with potential employees on the spot. Minister Uteem highlighted its role in addressing labor market challenges, including a persistent skills mismatch and reluctance among workers to take on non-traditional shifts.

“Many Mauritians hesitate to work night shifts or weekends, leaving critical positions unfilled,” Uteem noted. He also observed shifting priorities among younger job seekers, who increasingly value work-life balance and comfortable working conditions over long-term tenure with a single employer—a stark contrast to previous generations.

Training and Targeted Programs to Boost Employment

To align workforce skills with market demands, the Ministry is rolling out tailored training initiatives. Special programs are also in place to assist women re-entering the job market and youth securing their first employment.

Since January 2025:

• 193 women have enrolled in the “Women Back to Work” program.
• 266 young people have joined the Youth Employment Program.
• 25 job seekers have completed basic computer skills training.

Demographics and Job Preferences

Data from Employment Information Centres shows that most job seekers are looking for roles as general workers, office attendants, and clerical officers. The largest unemployed demographic—around 13,000 individuals—are between 31 and 50 years old.

Expanding Job Fairs Island-Wide

With the Port-Louis and Grand-Baie fairs drawing significant turnout, the Ministry plans to host more such events across Mauritius in the coming months. Uteem reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the labor market, stating, “Our goal is to create real opportunities and support all Mauritians, especially women and youth, in finding sustainable employment.”

The Job and Training Fair is part of a broader national strategy to revitalize Mauritius’ workforce and reduce unemployment by fostering direct employer-employee connections.

Source: Defi Media