The Ministry of Youth and Sports is implementing a focused initiative to reintegrate 46 youth street dwellers in the Western Division of Fiji, in response to growing concerns about the social issues that lead these youths to the streets. This program emphasizes empowerment through life skills and vocational training, enabling young individuals to gain valuable skills for their future.
Participants in this initiative are engaging in various training sessions, and many were involved in the recent Easter youth camp held in Lautoka. West Youth Officer Kaminieli Sadrata shared that during profiling efforts, it was revealed that some youths expressed a desire to return to formal education. As a result, the ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to facilitate their reintegration into secondary and primary schools.
Further, plans are underway for two selected youths to join development programs at the Nasau Training Centre, focusing on agriculture and pantry services, with the expectation that they will graduate next year. In addition, there are initiatives to train these youths as tour guides, utilizing their understanding and experiences from street life to offer unique perspectives in the tourism sector.
The Ministry has also introduced the Lesu Ki Vale initiative, aimed at reuniting youths with their families through rehabilitation and reconciliation processes. Community engagement plays a crucial role in these strategies, fostering relationships through initiatives like Matanigasau, which helps repair broken familial links.
While previous interventions may not have fully addressed the issue of youth returning to street life, this comprehensive strategy aims for sustainable outcomes that provide real opportunities for work and long-term transformation.
This initiative reflects a broader effort by the government to embrace vulnerable youth and instill hope for a brighter future through meaningful support and empowerment. The collaborative approach between community leaders, local organizations, and government bodies showcases a unified commitment to effect change, illustrating the potential for significant, positive impacts on young people’s lives in Fiji.
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