BY LESLEY FOINAGWA – ISLES MEDIA FREELANCER
A major step towards youth empowerment and behavior transformation was taken this week in Auki, Malaita province as the Malaita Provincial Youth Division Office, in collaboration with the National Youth Congress (NYC) and Plan International, launched the Youth Apprenticeship Program under the Youth Economic Climate Action (YECA) Project.
As the program unfolds into 2026, it is hoped that it will serve as a model for other provinces seeking to address youth unemployment and social challenges through hands-on training and mentorship.
On Tuesday, more than 25 young people—both boys and girls—gathered for a briefing and orientation session to prepare for the upcoming apprenticeship intake this November. The event marked the official beginning of the program, which is set to engage 100 youths in total: the first 50 apprentices will begin in November 2025, followed by another 50 in January 2026.
Special thanks were extended to the Provincial Coordinator from the Malaita Provincial Youth Desk Office for officially kicking off the program, and to partner organizations NYC and Plan International for their ongoing support in creating opportunities for youth engagement.
The Youth Apprenticeship Program is designed to run over a six-week period, with participants spending four days each week in the field, and Fridays dedicated to classroom mentoring sessions. The key focus areas of the program include Fisheries and Agriculture, sectors identified as both economically viable and vital for the sustainable development of local communities.
“This initiative is more than just skill development—it’s a proactive approach to reducing anti-social behaviour by providing meaningful pathways for our young people,” said the Youth Coordinator for Malaita Provincial Youth Division Office.
The YECA Project not only supports economic empowerment but also integrates climate action, aiming to instill a sense of responsibility and leadership in youth across Malaita Province.
