AT least three youth clubs in Lautoka will be able to embark on income generating projects, thanks to a grant by the Chinese Government. The project, in collaboration with the Youth and Sports Ministry, will assist Vakatora Youth Club, Bozu Youth Club and Lovu HART Youth Club.
Gu Yu, the political councillor from the Chinese Embassy in Fiji, said with the advent of economic globalisation and the increasing uncertainty of global economy, boosting the economy with start-ups had become a potent tool.
“Start-ups can create wealth and new jobs, which is conducive to employment and economic growth,” he said. “Youths are the future of a country and innovation is the driver for social progress. Starting a business constitutes an important approach for social development and wellbeing of the people.”
Mr Yu said young people were full of resilience, confidence and courage. While pursuing entrepreneurship, he said it was important for youths not to fear setbacks and failures.
“Being young may either be a negative or positive asset. In starting up their business, young people are faced with shortage of capital, experience and resources at the initial and crucial stages of their business, even at the risk of making mistakes.
“Young people are bestowed with enthusiasm, impetus and vitality and the cost for trial and error is low at this stage.”
Youth Minister Laisenia Tuitubou also acknowledged the assistance provided by the Chinese Government. He said the funds provided would assist in areas of positive youth and sports development.
