This morning, students at the Naleba Youth Training Centre in Macuata were encouraged to have self-confidence and to discover their potential.

Speaking to the 30 students during the handing over of agricultural tools, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu, emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication in building a better future.

“Do not ever think for a second that you don’t belong because all of you have a purpose here in the centre. There are so many social ills happening right here in Fiji and you being here is a great incentive to stay away from temptations but to take up studying a very important field- and that is agriculture,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“Change your mindsets, change your attitude and always remember that at the end of the day, farmers are the most important people in our world today. Without farmers, we will not be able to survive because they help to feed us three meals a day,” added Hon. Rayalu.

He also encouraged the students to lead by example and to always motivate each other in achieving their purpose in life.

“We can’t all be doctors, nurses and lawyers because we also need farmers to help in feeding our families and nation. Take full advantage of the tools provided, as they represent opportunities for personal and community growth through agriculture.”

Trainer at the Naleba Youth Training Centre, Mr. Iosefo Raqitawa thanked the ministry for the much needed tools which will assist them in providing practical training as well as advancing their agricultural production at the centre.

In his brief to Hon. Rayalu, he said that the tools will not only enhance the quality of training but will also open doors for the students to explore various opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Over the years, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways has assisted the centre with a portable rice mill, trainings, planting materials as well as fruit trees.

The centre currently has major existing projects like their nursery, rice farm, vegetable farm, poultry farm, fish farm and piggery.

“With our farming systems following the concept of climate smart and climate resilient agriculture, our future farmers in the Northern Division are taught how to adapt to various farming practices once they leave our gates at Naleba,” said Mr. Raqitawa.

By equipping the youth with essential tools and skills, the ministry and stakeholders like Naleba Youth Training Centre will be able to foster a generation of young leaders who can make a difference in both rural and urban communities.

ENDS

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