THE MINISTER FOR YOUTH AND SPORTS
HONOURABLE PARVEEN KUMAR BALA

Address  at Nasawana Village

Wednesday,14th April 2021, 10:00AM

• Master of Ceremonies
• Village Elders;
• Youth members
• My Ministry staff
• Ladies and Gentlemen

Bula Vinaka and a very good morning to you all,

I am honoured and privileged to be here to deliver remarks at this Youth Farm Initiative Project Handover Ceremony.

Today I am very pleased to handover our grant assistance to 410 well-deserved youth. The huge turnout of young Fijians stepping up to join this programme is indicative of the level of interest and enthusiasm placed in our agriculture sector. Farmers, students and people from all walks of life have taken advantage of this initiative and it is Government’s hope that through the programme, we will address world hunger and food production.

Ladies and Gentlemen, in developing countries like Fiji, agriculture has an image problem and is not viewed as an attractive avenue for employment – indeed, many do not regard it as employment at all. Most young people consider it as back-breaking work without any noticeable economic dividend and little room for career advancement. Of course, this is a myth which we all need to challenge as farmers are among the world’s richest people.

Engaging youth in agriculture has been a topic close to my heart and I welcome the cooperation between the Ministry, landowners and the youth. We need to identify and take ownership of the resources we own; and maximise the opportunities provided by Government through its various Ministries. The agricultural sector offers huge potential for young people and my Ministry must continue to emphasize this fact.

Finally, I believe some of you have also competed the Mobile Skills training on Small Engine Repair. This training is aimed at empowering youth through the provision of training that is relevant to their situation. These training courses are skills based training that the youth can use to contribute actively to their respective households and communities.

I urge you all to make that contribution to your communities and economy that I know you can. We have given you the basis from which to work and the rest is up to you – although we will be there to help if you need. Organic farming is more challenging but is more rewarding and I know that you are up to meeting the challenge.

With these few words, I wish to congratulate you all and wish you well in your future endeavours.

Vinaka-vakalevu!