The Ministry of Youth and Sports has recently taken significant measures to support the vulnerable youth population in Suva, where they identified 140 individuals living on the streets, including 40 women and eight children under ten. Led by Minister Jese Saukuru, a high-level meeting was organized with Social and Child Protection teams to strategize on rehabilitation and diversion pathways for those identified.
Plans for a similar profiling initiative in the Western Division have also been initiated, reflecting a broader commitment to meet the needs of at-risk youth across Fiji. A working group consisting of Permanent Secretaries from both ministries will oversee the implementation of these initiatives.
During the meeting, representatives from Inspire Pacific and Kauwai Home of the Salvation Army contributed insights from their successful rehabilitation program, which recently supported 17 youths and their families. Their model is viewed as a valuable framework for scaling rehabilitation efforts nationwide.
The meeting highlighted various innovative approaches from community leaders. Notably, musician Seru Serevi discussed his engagements with street dwellers through music, while former rugby star Seremaia Bai shared his experiences working with 500 children and youth through his rugby academy. These contributions provide effective strategies for supporting vulnerable individuals.
Both ministries expressed their commitment to collaborating with existing programs as a means to enhance rehabilitation efforts and to expand similar initiatives across other divisions. This collective approach emphasizes a holistic strategy to support and uplift vulnerable youth, showcasing a hopeful pathway toward recovery and empowerment.
This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also represents a broader vision for rebuilding and supporting young individuals facing adversity. The collaboration among government entities and community leaders reflects a promising step towards creating meaningful change in the lives of at-risk youths in Fiji, highlighting the importance of community engagement in fostering hope and recovery.
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