Number of young students doubles in 10 years

The number of 15-24-year-olds attending educational institutions doubled between 1980 and 2001, according to figures released yesterday by the National Statistics Office to coincide with International Youth Day.

In 2001, secondary schooling was the highest level of education completed by the majority of youths. This was followed by 28.4 per cent of youths with a post-secondary level of education.

In terms of differences in education levels by gender, females tend to be better qualified than males. In fact, 36.6 per cent have at least a post-secondary level of education as against 34.6 per cent of males.

Out of the total number of youths in Malta and Gozo, 46.8 per cent are now estimated to be working and a further 9.4 per cent are estimated to be unemployed. A good proportion of youths, 43.8 per cent, are still studying or training.