From March to May 2025, over 240 young people in South Tarawa, Kiribati gained access to hands-on training programmes through a joint initiative between the Ministry of Women Youth Sport and Social Affairs (MWYSSA) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), with funding support from New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). The programmes targeted disengaged and disadvantaged youth, with a focus on inclusivity for school dropouts, young women, and persons with disabilities.
Nine short courses were delivered during this period, including ICT for Office Suite Levels 1 and 2, Elementary to Intermediate English, Outboard Motor Maintenance, Sewing, Cookery, and Tie-Dyeing. These courses were selected based on a community-wide needs assessment carried out earlier in the year.
Across all courses, participants gained practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied to work, entrepreneurship, and further study. Courses such as sewing and cookery were particularly impactful in fostering self-reliance and encouraging small business aspirations. Digital literacy and English proficiency training helped learners build confidence to navigate modern work environments and community life.
Post-course feedback reflected strong satisfaction with the trainers and course design, with many learners requesting extended training durations to deepen their learning and explore income-generating opportunities.
Looking ahead, upcoming activities include driving lessons, ICT Office Suite Level 3, hospitality training, and English classes for Year 9 and 10 dropouts.
This initiative continues to support Kiribati’s national goals of empowering youth and strengthening livelihoods through inclusive and practical skills development, made possible through the support of COL and MFAT New Zealand.
Image source courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/mwyssaKiribati