A new initiative designed to help at-risk youth explore careers in the primary industries has secured a $200,000 funding boost through a partnership between government and community resources. Youth Minister James Meager announced that the Youth Development Partnership and Innovation Fund is contributing $100,000 to the New Zealand Rural Games Trust’s Agri Futures Pathways pilot programme. The Palmerston North-based trust will provide matching funds, bringing the total investment to $200,000. The programme is set to run over 13 months in the lower North Island, offering participants aged 12 to 24 at least 10 weeks of hands-on training. Meager emphasized that this initiative aims to create job opportunities for young people who might otherwise lack access to employment and educational pathways.
Why It Matters
This programme addresses youth unemployment, which has been a persistent issue, particularly among younger demographics in New Zealand. According to recent statistics, youth aged 15 to 24 have experienced higher unemployment rates compared to older age groups. Initiatives like the Agri Futures Pathways pilot are critical in providing practical skills and training, thereby improving the employability of at-risk youth. By investing in the primary industries, the programme also supports sectors that are vital to New Zealand’s economy, promoting sustainable workforce development.
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