Three young migrants in Basilicata, Italy, have officially entered the workforce after signing their first employment contracts in railway construction. This achievement follows a structured training program designed to enhance labor integration through collaboration between institutions and industry partners.
The contracts were finalized on February 11 under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) involving Anceferr, the Municipality of Rionero in Vulture, and Efmea. The hiring company is affiliated with the National Railway Construction United Association (Anceferr), marking a significant milestone in the initiative launched in 2024.
The program, which began in 2023, provided migrants with essential language skills and technical training, with Efmea overseeing workplace safety education. In 2024, Anceferr selected beneficiaries for specialized training, covering language proficiency, technical expertise, and professional orientation in the railway sector. Participants also gained hands-on experience through site visits and a “School-Worksite” initiative.
According to Anceferr President Vito Miceli, the initiative represents “a virtuous idea that became reality,” addressing both labor shortages and social integration. He emphasized that bridging the workforce gap in railway construction requires concrete solutions and close cooperation among firms, local entities, and the tertiary sector. Anceferr now aims to replicate this model nationwide to support Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
Mauro Tucciariello, President of the Municipality Council of Rionero in Vulture, described the project as “a shared path to manage social and work integration for a broader audience of non-EU citizens.” Similarly, Paolo Pesacane, President of Arci Basilicata, highlighted employment as “the most effective response for those fleeing war or human rights violations.”
Efmea representatives Donato Claps and Carmine Lombardi concluded that the signing of these contracts demonstrates the power of structured training in fostering youth integration. By effectively connecting labor demand with supply, the program sets a precedent for future initiatives supporting migrants’ inclusion in the workforce.