The workshops were conducted by the Ministry of Youth, Fiji National University and other non-government organisations.

Speaking at the Cakaudrove Provincial Council meeting held at Somosomo, Taveuni, youth co-ordinator Anare Sikoa said some of his members had found jobs at well-known hotels on Taveuni while others had started their own projects.

Mr Sikoa said youths were awarded certificates after attending workshops such as the one recently run by FNU.

"We will be focusing on exposing youths to more workshops so that they have a chance to change their lives," he said.

"We cannot be encouraging change if views and attitudes of youths do not change and this is why we are organising workshops that will reward our members with employment opportunities.

Mr Sikoa said 500 youths in the last government-funded sustainable livelihood project organised by FNU.

"They were presented certificates for a wide range of studies including small engine repairs, plumbing, screen-printing and commercial floriculture," he said.

More training are planned for next year.