An increase in the number of youngsters in Wales not in education, employment or training (called NEETs) is unacceptable, says Shadow Education Minister Paul Davies.
The Preseli Pembrokeshire AM says that more must be done to help people get the best start in life.
"It is essential that governments, at all levels, helps young people to realise their dreams, rather than place barriers in their way," he told the Senedd.
"Young people look forward to the future with particular hopes and ambitions, so it is important that we give them the best possible support."
He said that there needed to be more co-operation between local education authorities, schools and colleges to help get NEET figures down.
"That should already be happening, but the reality is that it is not happening across the board," he added.
"Offering the appropriate training, especially in a recession, is vital in order to develop the skills of our young people.
"It speaks volumes for the Assembly Government's lack of priorities that ministers did little to improve the NEETs problem in Wales before the economic downturn.
"The chances of success of schemes such as this are all the harder with the Assembly Government cutting further education funding, with fewer job opportunities, and with more people seeking work and training."
