THE Australian government has committed SBD$5.8m to Youth@Work for another two years of operation in Malaita and Western provinces, as part of its ongoing support for youth development in Solomon Islands.
The announcement follows visits of Australian High Commissioner Roderick Brazier to Youth@Work in Honiara and Gizo to take part in activities, interact with youths, and to demonstrate Australia’s continuous support.
During a recent visit to Youth@Work in Gizo, HE Brazier met with youths participating in the program and encouraged them by sharing his own experiences of hard work and perseverance.
‘Youth@Work is doing a great job to provide opportunities for young people in and around Auki, Gizo and Honiara. Make use of these opportunities. Do yourselves and your communities proud,” His Excellency said.
In 2016, following requests from Provincial communities and leaders, Australia supported Youth@Work to extend its operations to Auki and Gizo.
This year over 140 interns have already graduated from the Youth@Work programmes in the provinces.
Australia is the major supporter of Youth@Work in Malaita and Western Provinces and the recent commitment means the programme can successfully maintain its support to youths in rural areas for two more years.
Youth@Work is implemented by the Pacific Community (SPC), in partnership with Provincial and National Solomon Islands Government bodies.
The Youth@Work Programme aims to provide training, mentorship and support for youths to find employment or to start their own businesses.
