Changing the Narrative: How V-Lab and Youth Challenge are shaping new futures for school dropouts.
August 22, 2024 2:00 am | Posted in Business Profiles | Share now TwitterFacebook
Written by: Emma Hivo, Communications & Project Officer @ V-LAB
In a world where education is often seen as the key to success, what happens to those who fall through the cracks? Where can young people falling into that category receive the support and the attention that they need to build their lives and futures? In Vanuatu, only a handful of organizations like Youth Challenge Vanuatu (YCV) or Wan Smol Bag have the mandate, vision and resources necessary to look after these kids. Despite the amazing work of these organizations, much remains to be done.
The Yut Pawa Program, an initiative by V-Lab in collaboration with YCV and with funding from the Commonwealth or Learning, is trying to provide a response to these above mentioned questions by focusing on an oftenoverlooked group: school dropouts. This program is not just about giving these young people a second chance; it’s about reshaping their futures and, in turn, the future of Vanuatu.
Vanuatu faces a significant challenge in retaining students, especially as they transition from Junior to Senior Secondary education. According to MoET’s Annual Statistical Report 2022, the challenge of retaining students is more pronounced in rural areas and among male students, with dropout rates exceeding 50% in some cases. MoET’s report also highlights the difficulty in keeping students engaged and enrolled through to the completion of secondary school, making the work of programs like Yut Pawa or organizations like YGV or Wan Smol Bag even more critical.
Now why is it so important to work with school dropouts? The answer lies in the untapped potential that many of these youths possess. Without proper guidance and support, they risk falling into cycles of unemployment and poverty. But with the right opportunities, they can become drivers of change within their communities. The Yut Pawa Program is dedicated to unlocking that potential by offering targeted training, mentorship, and real-world exposure to various career paths.
Recently V-Lab organized a Mini Career’s Day as part of the Yut Pawa Program, to shine as an example of how such simple, yet highly effective interventions can make a difference. The event allowed 50 participants— many of whom had not completed Years 9, 10 or 11— to explore various career opportunities in a comfortable and supportive environment. Unlike traditional career days, which can be intimidating for those with an unconventional academic background, this event brought professionals from diverse industries directly to the students. Booths like Vanuatu Brewing Limited, Freight Logistics, Barret & Partners, VBTC, Titan FX, and other businesses provided an informal setting where participants were able to interact with professionals, ask questions, and gain insights they might never have encountered otherwise.
The success of the Mini Career Day shows us the importance of creating inclusive spaces where every young person feels valued and supported. But the question remains: How can we assist these youths on a larger scale? The answer lies in collaboration. By partnering with the private sector, programs like Yut Pawa can expand their reach, offering more opportunities and resources to those who need them most.
V-Lab is actively seeking partners within the private sector to support initiatives like the Yut Pawa Program. If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of Vanuatu’s youth and contributing to the country’s future, we invite you to join us. Together, we can create a brighter future for all. For more information or to express your interest in partnering, please send us an email at [[email protected]].
