Mana in Mahi programme expanded

Employment Minister Willie Jackson. Photo: Daniel Hines/SunLive.

The Government's Mana in Mahi programme has had a $49.9 million boost.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Employment Minister Willie Jackson visited employees in Edgecumbe one year after the Mana in Mahi launch, and Jacinda says the programme helps young New Zealanders to get valuable sought after skills and qualifications to kick start their career.

'Getting that first job and some relevant recognised qualifications is the first step in getting on the pathway to lifelong work. That will not only help the people taking part but will boost the businesses they are working with and help lift the economy overall.

'This is just one example of how this Government is tackling the long-term challenges facing New Zealand in order to ensure we have a productive, sustainable and inclusive economy that delivers for all New Zealanders,” Jacinda says.

The $49.9 million boost extends the number of places available in the programme from 150 to 2000. The criteria placement has also been extended to now include young people not in employment nor education.

Mana and Mahi is designed to provide employment and an industry training qualification pathway to young people on a benefit, it sees employers to receive a wage subsidy, and support for work-readiness or pre-employment costs.

Willie says Mana in Mahi gives young people the chance to achieve a formal industry training qualification, such as an apprenticeship, and get paid while they train to do a job they love.

'Employers told us taking on a trainee is a big commitment, especially for smaller businesses. Mana and Mahi helps employers with the costs of pre-employment and on-the-job training costs.

'This Government wants all New Zealander's to thrive. Mana in Mahi means more employers can train and develop the next generation of skilled workers while growing their business at the same time,” Willie says.

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