NEARLY 200 young people graduated from the Youth@ Work phase 11 programme at the National Auditorium yesterday.

Among them are people with special needs.

A total of 107 females and 80- plus males completed the Y@W programme and received their certificate.

These youths graduate with useful skills and knowledge in entrepreneurship, work experiences, capacity trainings and work ethics.

The Acting Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs, Mr Hugo Hebala in his keynote address persuaded the graduates to apply these skills and knowledge gained in their future opportunities.

He said trainers and mentors have given them basic tools important for job opportunities and if embraced will support them in real life.

“Since you equipped with these basic skills, use it to the best of your abilities, develop it further in a journey and explore these opportunities,” Mr Hebala said.

Assistant Coordinator for Y@W, Ms Raywin Taroaniara said the programme has impacted many young people by involvement in trainings and business-ready activities.

She said youths under this programme are fortunate to undergo empowering sessions as they are provided with continuous assistance in mentoring, refresher trainings and accessing the Y@W Resource Centre.

Ms Raywin thanked the partners and parents saying their attendance reflects support towards young people that they not alone in their struggles.

Meanwhile, the programme engages about 250 youths in each phase, and each year up to 500 young people benefit from Y@W initiative.

In each phase, youths spend six months internship attending various pre-employment and business-ready activities.

The event was ended with an entertainment from interns with the watchful eyes of parents and guardians to enjoy the dancing and singing.