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GOTAFE runs Indigenous Youth program again

The GOTAFE Koorie Education Unit with the support of ASHE (Academy of Sport Health and Education), recently won the tender to deliver the Indigenous Youth Mobility Programme (IYMP) for the second time. The new program commenced in July 2009 and will run until September 2012.

IYMP is part of the Australian Government's Indigenous Closing the Gap Initiative. The Government has committed to provide the program in 17 locations around Australia, with Shepparton being the only Victorian site.

"With the support of their families and communities, these young people will elect to relocate to major centres in order access key education and employment opportunities," said Koorie Education Unit Manager, Carol Smith.

Ms Smith, says the Shepparton IYMP has had an 83 per cent success rate in completions and students going back to their communities to work or continuing their study with 48 commencements from all areas of Australia who have participated in the program.

"Students have attained certificates in Sport, Recreation, Hospitality, IT, Nursing, Automotive and Cultural Arts, at all levels," said Ms Smith.

The program provides students with mentors, safe group accommodation, field trips, camps, study support and integration into the local indigenous community including through the Rumbalara Football Netball Club.

"The opportunity for young people to re-engage in education and be supported through the various indigenous organisations within the Goulburn Valley gives them the most advantageous chance to develop their skills for their long term career," said Ms Smith.

"The program is already in full swing with seven students already enrolled for the new program. We are looking forward to work with more young people within this program."

For more information call 1300 GOTAFE (1300 468 233).