Skills training launched for 7m migrant workers

China's human resources authorities have launched a skills training program for 7 million rural migrant workers to help stabilize employment this year and next year.

According to a notice recently issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the skills improvement campaign is tailored to both employed and unemployed migrant workers.

Rural migrant workers who have returned to their hometowns, but are still struggling financially, can also receive training.

The ministry said that there are over 290 million rural migrant workers nationwide, making up the majority of the nation's labor force.

However, the group is more affected by economic fluctuations because of their lower education levels and work skills, a weak social security system and unstable employment conditions.

The COVID-19 outbreak also meant they required more support from the government. Earlier this year, the ministry started free online skills training courses for migrant workers.

As of May 15, a total of 9.3 million rural migrant workers had registered for the training courses, with 7.9 million people taking part. The courses were of great help to the resumption of work, as the epidemic began to be brought under control.

Last year, the ministry helped 7.5 million migrant workers and 2.59 million impoverished people improve their work skills.