The Ministry for Pacific Peoples has welcomed the announcement of funding to expand the successful Pacific Employment Support Service (PESS) programme into regional New Zealand.
Announced ahead of Waitangi Day commemorations, the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will invest $8.85 million to expand the scheme into greater Waikato, Manawatu-Whanganui, Otago, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay and Murihuku/Southland.
The Ministry is now in a position to reach out to providers in these regions to tender for the contract to deliver the programme, which is specifically for Pacific people aged 15-39 years who are Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET).
Established eight years ago, the initiative has seen existing providers selected by MPP motivate, train and match young people to suitable jobs or education.
These providers have offered career advice, coaching and interview skills to help hundreds of young people succeed in the workforce.
The tender for the contract to deliver the programme is now open and will close on March 20, at 12pm.