The Youth Development Strategy Aotearoa (YDSA) promotes a youth development approach as a way of understanding what needs to happen for, around and with young people (12-24) in New Zealand. It was developed by the Ministry of Youth Development and published in 2002.

Youth development is about how young people develop the skills and attitudes they need to take a positive part in society, now and in the future.

The Strategy consists of a vision, principles, aims and goals, and suggests actions that can be taken to support the positive development of young people.

The focus in on how government and society can support young women and men aged 12 to 24 years inclusive to develop the skills and attitudes they need to take part positively in society, now and in the future.

Vision:

A country where young people are vibrant and optimistic through being supported and encouraged to take up challenges.

• The Principles
• The Aims
• The Goals