Investing in young people for a secure & sustainable Pacific

Investing in young people for a secure, prosperous and sustainable Pacific – PIFS Officials side event in Auckland

The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) Director-General Dr Jimmie Rodgers participated in a panel discussing youth issues in the Pacific, including the recently reviewed Pacific Youth Strategy. Dr Rodgers advocated for greater data collection for better informed decision-making, and a context-driven approach to youth issues in Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs), acknowledging that no two PICTs are alike in their resource base and social contexts.

Also included on the panel was Leinasei Simon, representing the Pacific Youth Council and rugby great Tana Umaga, who shared his experiences as a young rugby player and his views on the potential offered by sport as an employment avenue for young people. He cautioned, however, that young people could be exploited by the lure of scholarships and potential rugby playing careers, noting that therefore proper advice and due diligence should be a priority.

Ms Simon spoke of the need for greater awareness of government policy, and the need to include the whole community when working with young people, especially the church and the family.

ENDS

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