Pacific islands commit to policies that promote youth entrepreneurship

The governments of eight Commonwealth island countries in the Pacific have resolved to implement policies that will enable more young people to become entrepreneurs and job creators rather than job seekers. 

Youth unemployment in the Pacific today stands at 23 percent with young people up to six times more likely to be jobless than the rest of the adult population.

Policy proposals include:

• Incentivising young entrepreneurs through tax concessions and simplified and flexible business registration procedures
• Expanding financial services including loan and grant schemes, investment schemes and guarantee schemes
• Improving internet and telephone connectivity with greater coverage in urban and rural areas
• Promoting entrepreneurial thinking from an early age through education and training
• Delivering employment programmes such as internships, mentoring services, career guidance and apprenticeships
• Raising awareness and supporting young entrepreneurs, through trade expos and awards

http://thecommonwealth.org/media/news/pacific-islands-commit-policies-p…