The director of DYPA, Gianna Chormova, spoke to ERTnews about the Social Tourism program and the progress of Career Days.
Social Tourism applications open Tuesday
As she announced, applications for the new Social Tourism program open on Tuesday (21/4), with the process developing gradually according to the last digit of beneficiaries’ tax identification numbers. The submission period will last until Saturday (25/4), when all interested parties will be able to submit applications.
The director emphasized there is no reason to rush, as she assured that the systems are prepared, and an extension may be granted if necessary.
The program covers approximately 300,000 beneficiaries, with the goal being to complete all procedures (applications, evaluation, appeals and final results) so that vouchers can be used within May, earlier than any other year.
What the program provides
This year’s social tourism includes:
-Participation in more than 1,500 accommodations throughout the country (hotels and rental rooms)
-Subsidized ferry tickets, with differentiation by beneficiary category
-Zero participation for people with disabilities in transportation and accommodation
-Extended vacation duration:
- up to 10 days for North Aegean islands
- up to 12 days for areas affected by natural disasters, such as North Evia, Evros and Thessaly (except Sporades)
Special reference was made to the proper use of vouchers, as those who do not utilize their entitlement may be excluded from the program for the following year. However, this regulation does not apply to people with disabilities and large families.
New provision for large families
A significant innovation is the inclusion of large families among program beneficiaries on an annual basis, without the risk of exclusion in case of non-use of vouchers.
Career Days: 13,000 hires and continuing
Referring to DYPA’s Career Days, Ms. Chormova highlighted the great momentum of this institution, which has already led to more than 13,000 hires.
Today the event takes place in Serres on Saturday (18/4), with more than 800 available job positions, while the next event is scheduled for Patras.
As she noted, this is a “particularly powerful tool” that brings employers and candidates into direct contact – whether they are unemployed or workers seeking new opportunities.
In fact, there are many cases where hires are completed on the spot, even with immediate registration in the “ERGANI” system during the event.
The DYPA director characterized as “extremely important” the moment when candidates and employers shake hands, confirming the direct and practical nature of the action.
