A new House blong Work office has opened in Port Vila, aiming to help young Ni-Vanuatu build job-ready skills, connect with employers and access more employment opportunities.

The office officially opened this week, with Australian High Commissioner Max Willis highlighting its role in creating opportunities for young people who are finding it difficult to secure employment.

“We’re creating opportunities for young Ni-Vanuatu to build successful careers and to contribute to their communities and their nation’s future.”

The opening comes as House blong Work continues to support people looking for employment, with owner Lopez Adams saying the organisation has recorded around 4,000 people seeking work in Port Vila.

Adams says the new office will also use technology to expand the types of skills training available to young people.

Virtual Reality to Support Skills Training

House blong Work is preparing to receive virtual reality headsets which will be used to develop practical training programmes.

Adams says the technology will allow young people to access training in several trades and professions.

“Very soon House blong Work will receive virtual reality headsets and we will train young people how to become electricians, plumbers, architects, construction workers and welders.”

He says the technology can also be used to develop programmes around areas such as agriculture and traditional skills, making the training more accessible to young people.

The new office has been established through collaboration with the Australian High Commission in Vanuatu, which is supporting House blong Work to expand opportunities for job seekers.

The organisation aims to help more young Ni-Vanuatu develop relevant skills, connect with potential employers and improve their chances of entering the workforce.