The Community and Youth Development Program within the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development (MoYSD) is run by Olafou, a term from the Samoan language meaning "new life." The aim of this program is to instill hope in young people and provide them with opportunities to contribute to their own welfare, well-being, and livelihoods. The program specifically targets young individuals who have dropped out of school and are engaged in their communities as youth leaders or volunteers. It also focuses on vulnerable young people who aspire to create positive change in their lives and communities.
Recently, we have begun to see an increase in training providers and youth service organizations offering training and short courses focused on youth work. Government institutions are also contributing to capacity building for youth leaders and youth workers. In line with this, Olafou, like other training providers, is working to train youth leaders and youth workers, helping them explore ways to support their youth groups and enhance community development. The program aims to empower young individuals by providing them with opportunities to shape their futures and address the developmental needs of their communities.
A Way Forward for Youth Empowerment
There are a number of youth who have completed the program, earning certificates, and are actively working with their communities and youth groups. With these qualifications, they have the opportunity to further their studies at the University of the South Pacific on its Vanuatu campus. We have an initiative called "Soul Society," which comprises groups of young people and youth workers who have graduated from various levels of our program. Members of the Soul Society are passionate about working with youth and are considered part of the Olafou family.
The Soul Society can be contacted to engage in community work or youth activities in various locations. They are also available to conduct training sessions within the community and promote youth development. With their qualifications, they can apply for positions within NGOs or government departments that focus on community and youth development, as well as disaster preparedness.
We have reached out to several islands beyond Vila and Luganville, and we are exploring ways to assist them with domestic travel to help them engage further with the program and support their communities. The Youth Empowerment Department is also working on localizing the program; however, we first need to build a strong team of human resources. There are already some former students actively implementing projects in their communities, focusing on resilience and preparation for natural disasters.
Olafou Program Revival in Santo
The Olafou program, which had been suspended for serveral years, recomenced in Santo in October 2024, with the first block training session for Olafou youth also begun on that same month.
To find out more about Olafou Santo program, please follow their Facebook page at Olafou Santo Vanuatu.