A quarter of 17-year-olds who last year completed their secondary school education are doing nothing, according to Education Minister Evarist Bartolo.

He expressed great concern that 1,085 of those who completed Form 5 were not working, studying or training but only “idling their time away”. Of these, 200 were in Gozo.

“We hear ministers speaking of economic deficit but, in my opinion, this is the largest deficit we have – young people not doing anything with their lives,” Mr Bartolo said. He was speaking at the launch of the 2015/2016 adult learning and visual and performing arts courses.

“Some might argue that the statistics do not capture those working illegally. I would prefer them to work illegally than wasting their lives. But we are aware of scenarios where youths wake up at 11am and spend most of their time online.”

Mr Bartolo recalled that, in May 2013, a whopping 7,000 young people aged between 18 and 24 were not engaged in employment, training or education. One could not reach out to these youths, who had a poor educational experience, by giving them more of the same.

“Such adult learning courses should work to engage these people,” he said.

Mr Bartolo also noted that many needed psychosocial support too because they suffered from low self-esteem and lack of social and personal skills.

Lifelong education was crucial for a more open, democratic society and for an advanced economy. He congratulated parents who attended courses to be able to help their children with subjects such as maths and English. Applications opened yesterday for over 100 courses targeting adults and mature people as well those over 16.

On offer are basic skills courses, language courses and vocational courses. Subjects vary from basic skills such as computer, internet, English, Maltese, maths and science, to languages like Spanish, Arabic and German.

The lifelong learning department also offers guidance sessions for those unsure what to go for.

The fees are nominal: a 32-week course costs €34. Applications close on August 7.

For more information visit www.lifelonglearning.gov.mt.