YOUTHS of Yaroi Village in Savusavu have formed groups to tackle problems that affect their development in the village.
Organised by the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) National Volunteer Centre and funded by Vodafone ATH Fiji Foundation, the Youth at Risk program in the village empowers young people to address critical issues.
FCOSS National Volunteer Centre co-ordinator Neil Maharaj said drugs and alcohol, suicide attempts, poor health, unemployment, teenage pregnancy and access to quality education affected young people in many communities in Fiji.
For the youths in Yaroi, two groups — Sereki and Navuniyasawa — have been formed to combat these problems.
"Amongst several issues, unemployment is major issue and both groups are utilising their farming skills to establish farming projects to address unemployment," Mr Maharaj said.
He said the youths received 4000 pineapple tops as part of farming program.
"The Youth at Risk program empowers youths to address critical issues or risk factors affecting them in their communities themselves.
"Through this program youths are able to identify issues, design strategies to execute as a project and also develop sustainable plans in order to combat at risk issues in their communities."