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Fiji’s National Youth Service Scheme (NYSS) matches the UNICEF youth study prerequisite for long term economic security, says Ministry of Youth and Sports’ NYSS manager Vilimone Baledrokadroka.
Speaking at the NYSS Specific Skills training certificate presentation ceremony for close to 100 youths in Lautoka Friday, Baledrokadroka said the youth scheme was about investing strategically in youth livelihoods for economic security.
“There is an expected increase in the youth population or at least for the cohort that we serve – the 15 – 35 years age groups - the 2007 population estimates put this at more than 30 per cent,” he said.
He said such a growth could be viewed either as a burden or an opportunity.
“The ministry has chosen to look at this as an opportunity – in fact we consider our youth population as our greatest resource,” Baledrokadroka said.
“You – young people yes, you are our greatest resource.”
Baledrokadroka added the ministry’s greatest desire was to see young people become economically independent, thriving in their communities and contributing to economic growth.
He said this was why the ministry would continue to work towards sensitising government stakeholders and private sector partners on the importance of investing more in young people and building on their capabilities.
“The ministry will also continue to promote the importance of creating opportunities for community service and facilitating access to high income labour markets,” Baledrokadroka said, adding the onus was on youths themselves.
“Access to these opportunities will ultimately be decided by how well you perform and the impressions you create in your communities through your work, behaviour and attitudes,” he said.
Meanwhile, the ministry revealed that more than 3000 youths were awaiting assistance under the scheme.
Baledrokadroka said this was the number added to the 2000 plus youths who were currently going through the five-component youth development programme this year.
He said the participants were among over 2000 youths that were fortunate enough to have been through the second phase and part of the 959 who have been through the third phase of the scheme.
“There are an additional 3,079 youth clients still waiting for assistance and training under the scheme next year. This is the reality of the demand by young people for the programme of which you have been fortunate to have undertaken this far,” he told the youth participants.
