11/06/2026
MINISTER SAUKURU PRAISES AND CONGRATULATES DISABLED TRAINEES.
Any young person - disabled or not - needs motivation and mentoring.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru at the closing of the Mobile Skills Training at the Western Disability Centre in Lautoka on (11/06/26).
“Our responsibility is to ensure that no young person is left behind. We must continue to create pathways that build confidence, develop skills, and encourage self-reliance,” Hon. Saukuru said.
A total of 17 participants from the lWestern Disability Centre completed the two-day training which focused on screen printing, vase making and tie & dye.
“Disability should never define what a person can achieve. Instead, your talents, determination, and character should define your future,”
He emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for income generation, self-employment, and personal growth for young persons with disabilities.
“I want each one of you to know that your Coalition Government are here for you. We see you. We hear you. We value you. We remain committed to ensuring that every young person, regardless of their circumstances or abilities, has access to opportunities that empower them to succeed,” Hon. Saukuru said.
Hon. Saukuru thanks the National Council for Persons with Disabilities for their partnership and support in making the training programme possible. Through collaboration with the Council, meaningful skills development opportunities have been provided to young persons with disabilities, empowering them with practical knowledge and greater confidence for the future.
National Council for Persons with Disabilities Manger West Mrs. Eka Loco , said that although persons with disabilities face many challenges in society, the training has given them the opportunity to learn new skills to enhance personal development.
Loco said it will prepare them to gain employment or engage in income-generating activities to raise their standards of living as well as their social status.
Hon. Saukuru also handed over a set of sports equipment as the western disabled team prepares for the upcoming Special Olympic Talent Identification Game this Saturday (13:06:2026) in Suva.
Minister Saukuru encouraged the graduates to continue practicing the skills they have learned, use them to create opportunities for themselves, support their families, and inspire others.
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