NCC workshop focuses on youth participation in cooperative sector

An initiative of the National Co-operative College (NCC), a one-day workshop on the theme “Youth and Cooperatives: Building the Future Together” was launched this morning in Terre Rouge. The workshop seeks to promote greater awareness among young people of the cooperative model and to encourage their active engagement in the cooperative sector as a pathway to entrepreneurship, social inclusion, and sustainable economic development.

The Minister of Industry, SMEs and Cooperatives, Mr Sayed Muhammad Aadil Ameer Meea, was present at the event alongside the Director of the NCC, Mr Sanjeev Coonjobeeharry. Around 200 students from secondary schools attended the workshop. Through presentations and interactive discussions, participants were apprised of the opportunities offered by cooperatives and the important role that youth can play in ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the cooperative movement.

In his keynote address, Minister Ameer Meea highlighted the importance of the cooperative model in fostering collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship among young people. He pointed out that, in a rapidly changing world driven by technological advancements and artificial intelligence, success increasingly depends on the ability to work collectively, adapt to change and develop innovative solutions.

The Minister recalled that the cooperative movement has, for more than a century, contributed to the socio-economic development of Mauritius and currently generates approximately Rs 7 billion for the economy.

Moreover, Minister Ameer Meea underscored the need for greater youth participation in the cooperative sector, highlighting that many cooperative societies are facing an ageing membership. He encouraged young people to embrace cooperative entrepreneurship as a pathway to creating opportunities, generating employment and contributing to national development. T

For his part, Mr Coonjobeeharry emphasised the important role of young people in shaping the future of the country and sustaining the cooperative movement. He highlighted that the workshop was designed to familiarise students with the history, principles and values of cooperatives, while demonstrating how cooperation can serve as a pathway to entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership and community development. He further reaffirmed the NCC's commitment to empowering youth through education and training, with a view to nurturing the next generation of cooperative leaders and ensuring the continuity, sustainability and growth of the cooperative sector.

18 June 2026

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Topics: Cooperatives