Introduction
As a matter of fact, in the present day, career growth in Guam may be regarded as relatively limited due to a highly negative impact of the pandemic caused by a global spread of COVID-19. It led to the decline of the island’s business and substantially affected its tourism sector that supported the whole economy. As a result, the level of unemployment has increased dramatically and even if the signs of recovery may be currently noticed, the situation remains tense.
Career Growth and Unemployment in Guam
In his article, O’Connor addresses the issue of employment and states that a considerable number of people who worked in the tourism sector cannot return due to its downfall and cannot find another job due to the absence of qualification. At the same time, the potential solution is in the federal funding of local workforce development and workers’ “apprenticeship programs in which they may get training and funding support in preparation for future employment” (O’Connor par. 7). The author’s notions related to Guam’s limited career growth is supported by Cagurangan who also mentions the ambiguous employment-related situation that currently exists in the island. On the one hand, “there may be more than enough jobs but whether there are enough people willing to work or qualified to do the jobs that are available begs the question” (Cagurangan par. 19). Finally, addressing the same issue, Ngirairikl mentions the similar solution, including education for Guam’s people to receive new qualification and get a job. In particular, the program Job Corps that helps young people to obtain knowledge and skills is mentioned.
Conclusion
All in all, it is possible to say that all three authors agree that there are limitations in career growth in Guam and they are mostly connected with the absence of necessary skills for an occupation outside the tourism sector. In addition, the authors admit the necessity of additional training and educational programs that will help people prepare for new jobs. Even if O’Connor talks about federal funding for the island’s citizens and Ngirairikl addresses education abroad, it is obvious that the provision of opportunities for knowledge acquisition may be an efficient solution that will reduce career growth limitations in the island.
Works Cited
Cagurangan, Mar-Vic. “Guam’s Ambiguous Labor Situation.” Pacific Island Times. Web.
Ngirairikl, Oyaol. “Job Corps Opens Tuition-Free Doors for Pacific Students.” The Guam Daily Post, Web.
O’Connor, John. “Economist Talks Employment and Growth Prospects.” The Guam Daily Post, Web.