Recently, two youth training programmes were successfully completed in Vanuatu with COL’s partners, V-Lab and Youth Challenge Vanuatu (YCV).

Under YCV’s ‘Ready for Business’ programme, 50 youths underwent intensive entrepreneurship training, covering various aspects of business development and management. Another programme, ‘Ready for Work’, trained 46 youths in employability skills such as computer and job-seeking skills, followed by an eight-week internship programme. These programmes were offered as part of the Partnership for ODFL in the Pacific Project.

One such success story is that of Mr Kalonuk Erikan – a 26-year-old clothing business owner who enrolled in the Ready for Business programme – which has equipped him with invaluable skills and knowledge in business management. After his participation in this programme, Mr. Erikan expressed that he gained skills which would help provide more control over his finances, leverage online marketing, and wisely manage his time and customer relationships.

Now, he sees the potential for growth in his small business and is committed to training and employing staff while sharing his knowledge and skills with others in his community.