Parents need to encourage their children to work hard and start a business rather than working hard to get a job.

This was highlighted by Employment Jone Usamate while commissioning the Namara Pilot Project in Tailevu yesterday.

Usamate highlighted the employment rate was 7.1% in 2010 and as of today has dropped to 4.5%.

Usamate adds his Ministry is targeting school leavers the most as they’re vulnerable when it comes to finding work.

The Minister says the Pilot Project in Namara was the first of its kind in the country as this is just the first stage his ministry will use as a base for villagers looking to work under the seasonal workers scheme overseas.

He adds the Ministry aims to use more people from villagers as they’re very hardworking and will use their money to improve their lifestyle in the village rather than moving to urban centers.

The Namara Pilot Project employs 30 villagers and creates a source of income for the village through the planting of sandalwood.

The 30 villagers who are part of the Pilot Project are also part of the National Employment Centre and receive $100 a week for their hard work.