TASTING A FUTURE: Mercer Ahu learns about making sushi from EIT Tairāwhiti level three cooking tutor Mark Gooding during the second day of the Tu Rangatahi Programme this week. Each day, a small group of people who previously have been doing nothing, are getting a taste of the many options to learn and train for a better future.
A programme at EIT Tairāwhiti aims to redirect some young people from doing nothing, to a pathway toward a better future.
The joint collaboration between EIT Tairāwhiti, Te Puni Kokiri and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) is called Tu Rangatahi.
It was started in 2020 by EIT Tairāwhiti campus director Jan Mogford but the global epidemic Covid 19 hit after the first two sessions.
EIT Tairāwhiti Tu Rangatahi coordinator Bridget French-Hall is in charge this year, organising a range of activities based around courses available at EIT.
“This week the rangatahi are getting the opportunity to look at all sorts of different pathways to work and start a career.”
On Monday, the first session was an icebreaker with inspirational youth life coach, Chris Treacher from Hawke’s Bay.
He asked them to participate even if it was challenging.
“No challenge, no change. And if you are here, something needs to change.”
The group of 15 enjoyed the day, says Bridget.
“It was incredible. Both us and the MSD staff member really got to know the participants and so we can help direct them.”
The majority will have access to scholarships and all can enrol in a programme that interests them.
As well as the chance to get ahead, the youths have been enjoying building networks with the others taking part, says Bridget.
“At the end of the first day we had a wrap up session and the consensus was that it was hard thinking about what they wanted at the start of the day, but they all said at the end – “now I do know”.”
Tuesday’s session centered around hospitality, Wednesday looked at the different trades and Thursday Operation Hydra, is focused at a future in the police, armed services or fire brigade. The last day, Friday, is all about drones and virtual reality.
Campus manager Waata Shepherd says over the week the rangatahi would have new experiences.
“We hope to inspire, motivate and support while they try new things, meet new people, have new experiences and generally have a good time.”