ConPRmetidos campaign boosts summer training for Puerto Rican youth
Nonprofit group ConPRmetidos has launched its “Apoya a un Joven este Verano” (“Support a Youth This Summer”) campaign to help close the gap between education and workforce needs in Puerto Rico.
The effort is part of the group’s broader Futuro ConPR program, which aims to strengthen the island’s talent pipeline through hands-on learning and direct employer engagement.
“Puerto Rico doesn’t just need to attract and retain talent, it needs to prepare it,” said ConPRmetidos Executive Director Isabel Rullán. “With Futuro ConPR and this summer campaign, we are planting the seeds for a stronger, more connected local talent pipeline aligned with 21st-century opportunities.”
The pilot will launch in two public schools, where students will develop skills such as communication, critical thinking and adaptability through experiential learning. Students will also visit companies and meet professionals in a range of industries. At the same time, school counselors will receive updated training and resources to better guide students toward career paths tied to market demand.
The campaign responds to a skills mismatch and low student exposure to career options. Past research by ConPRmetidos identified four key barriers to youth employment: outdated curricula, limited career guidance, low exposure to professions and limited collaboration between schools and the private sector.
Banco Popular is among the campaign’s backers, providing mentorship opportunities and supporting efforts to help students explore career paths in Puerto Rico.
“This is only the beginning,” said Rullán. “With the support of strategic partners and the community, we can transform the professional development of our youth and Puerto Rico’s economic future.”
