Youth Profile

The 2006 census recorded a total of 438 young people (15-34 years old), consisting of 207 females and 231 males and representing 26.9% of the total population.

The 2001 census reported a total of 471 young people — 233 females and 238 males. Unlike other Pacific Island countries and territories where youth represents a significant portion of the total population, Niue is grappling with the migration of its youth population (mainly to New Zealand), with more male migrating than young women.

The young people of Niue are well educated as education is compulsory (up to age 14) and they have access to higher and tertiary education in New Zealand and at the University of the South Pacific (USP). Young people leaving grade 13 who are not able to continue their education either find employment in the public service or private sector, or they migrate to New Zealand.

Being the largest employer on the island, the Niue Public Service is also the main employer of young people. Few young people are employed by NGOs and the private sector. The issue of unemployment was not brought up by young people during the review consultation, probably thanks to the low unemployment rate on Niue.

The number of youth with disabilities could not be ascertained due to lack of data; however, the total number of people with disabilities in Niue was reported in 2006 to be 9 (5 males, 4 females).

Summary of issues impinging on youth development

Issues hampering the realisation of the full potential of young people include:

• Lack of organised activities for youth — There are insufficient resources to organise activities that will best suit the interest of young people and inadequate human resource to manage and implement youth activities.

• Lack of motivation — A concern raised by the Taoga Niue Government Department of Culture and Heritage office and the young people is a lack of motivation and interest by youth participating in learning and promoting the Niuean traditions and customs. There is a lack of understanding of Niuean culture that may lead to the extinction of this unique heritage. Young people have a responsibility to maintain and carry forward Niuean culture. However, young people blame their lack of motivation and interest on modern influences demands, and competing priorities.

• Inadequate employable skills — Young people entering the workforce from high school do not necessarily have the skills to fully undertake their roles and responsibilities. There is a need to provide mentoring and capacity building for young employees.

• Limited opportunities for young people to diversify careers — Due to limited resources (including human resources) and competing priorities, there are limited opportunities for young people to get into other fields/careers.

• Lack of interests in areas such as agriculture, handicrafts and small income generating activities due to limited market and awareness of opportunities in the informal/private sector. This has discouraged young people from venturing into these sectors.

• Migration — Young people do not feel that migration is a problem as educational and employment opportunities abroad are more attractive. However, migration does affect young people’s development as those responsible for youth development also have other commitments due to the shortage of human resources. Between 2001 and 2006, an average of 50 people migrated per year, with the majority being young people.