Recently released unemployment figures show that more than 1 in 3 of the people receiving an Unemployment Benefit in Dunedin is under the age of 25.

On top of this, both the Otago Polytechnic and University are expecting to limit enrolments. The normal pathways from school to study to work for many of Dunedin’s young people are now unclear at best, broken at worst.

Methodist Mission Chief Executive Laura Black says, “There is a significant group of students who have successfully passed NCEA at Levels 2 or 3 yet who will be rejected by tertiary institutions that are already full. Without employment or training, young people can risk regrettable life choices. The next 12 to 18 months are crucial.”

Concerned at the long-term implications of “good kids losing traction” the Mission has stepped up, and is offering Make A Plan (MAP).

The MAP pilot will run in 2011 with its target being students who have missed out on acceptance to Otago University, Otago Polytechnic or Aoraki Polytechnic; and who are “too qualified” to go on TEC or MSD-funded second-chance learning courses.

The programme has a variety of elements including art, music, voluntary service, and off-site elements aimed to expand the abilities, self-reliance and group skills of the participants. There are 'leaving home' skills including cooking, budgeting, tenancy issues, and dealing with agencies, but the primary focus is on the next step after MAP: further education through entry to Polytechnic or University, and work.

ENDS

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