Suva, 1 December  - The Ministry of Youth and Sports, with partnering agencies, continues its commitment to provide focused and sustainable programs to train youths in organic agriculture and carpentry.

This after 14 agriculture and 23 carpentry students, including two trainees from Tuvalu, graduated from the Ministry’s training centre in Nasau, yesterday.

The Honourable Minister for Youth and Sports, Laisenia Tuitubou, while officiating during the graduation congratulated the graduates on their achievement.

“It is once again that time of year when we gather to celebrate the accomplishments of our organic agriculture and carpentry graduates,” the Minister said.

He further stated the need for more youths to be trained and upskilled to enable them to contribute to the continuing development of the country.

“The Fijian economy faces challenges due to the changing weather pattern and thus the Fijian agriculture and carpentry industries demand young and innovative minds to propel the country forward,” he said.

“We need an agriculture sector that is ready to bounce back; we need ecological stability that ensures that resources are available for our future generations.”

The Minister further encouraged the graduates to reflect upon their experiences as they move forward in life saying: “Graduates, as you prepare to move to the next stage in your lives, I encourage you to reflect upon your experiences and consider how best you can utilize this valuable training.”

“You are now in the perfect position to give back to and serve as leaders in your communities.  You have the knowledge, you have the confidence and you are the future.”