A magnificent vision – building a future for the Ni Vanuatu.

The Pacific island nation of Vanuatu is rich in contrasts and opposites captured even in the bold colours of its flag. Simmering below the lush exterior of a tropical paradise are eight brooding volcanoes, each capable of unleashing the wrath of another Krakatoa. The tranquil beaches and calm lagoons betray the presence of restless earth far below, as massive tectonic plates jostle for position on the earth's crust.

For many people Vanuatu is synonymous with holidays in the sun, golden beaches, luxurious villas, the perfect place to be pampered and to get away from it all. Yet many parts of the island chain are surprisingly backward, under-developed and quite primitive.

Parts of the economy are experiencing an upturn thanks to tourism and investment in real estate and housing, but only a privileged minority are actually benefiting directly from this growth. Overseas interests are spurring the growth and stand to gain most from the newfound prosperity. In contrast most inhabitants of the thirteen major islands live a subsistence existence and have few resources within themselves to change their predicament.

Recently there has been a considerable overseas aid injected into the country. Most of it has been directed towards the infrastructure supporting tourism, building development and academic education programs. Unemployment is high and people are not only poorly educated, they also lack fundamental practical and trade skills that are needed in any developing society.

The Ni Vanuatu want to be able to help themselves, not overseas investors.

Basic computer knowledge may equip them for a job in hospitality, but computers cannot cannot fell, mill and dress timber. The Ni Vanuatu desparately need timber to build themselves homes and boats in order to survive.

Mathematics, science and communictaions may be the building blocks of modern education, but the locals in these islands need to know how to use a hammer and saw. Bricklaying is every bit as important as accounting. Boatbuilding enables them to harvest the abundant waters that surround their homes. Joinery skills create the opportunites to establish their own furniture businesses

Too much of the money being invested in Vanuatu is by-passing the real needs of the Ni Vanuatu. The Listair Institute has been established to help the Ni Vanuatu help themselves. It is the result of a shared vision of handful of Ni Vanuatu young men and a wiry Scotsman. They are committed to improving the quality of life of the average island resident.

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