More Than 700 Graduates From Rumbek And Yirol TVET Centers
More Than 700 Graduates From Rumbek And Yirol TVET Centers. In a remarkable milestone for skills development in South Sudan, UNESCO and its partners recently celebrated the graduation of over 700 students from five Technical, Vocational, and Educational Training (TVET) centers in Lakes State. This initiative, funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), marks a significant step forward in enhancing vocational education and promoting economic growth in the region.
Graduation Ceremony Overview
The graduation ceremonies took place in Rumbek and Yirol, drawing a diverse group of stakeholders including government officials, local leaders, community representatives, and well-wishers. The event highlighted the successful completion of 3-6 months of foundational and vocational skills training for 747 graduates (485 male and 262 female). The training covered 15 trades, ranging from auto-mechanics and masonry to hairdressing and ICT.
Training Details
The graduates were trained in various fields, equipping them with practical skills in:
- Auto-Mechanics
- Masonry & Concrete Practices
- Basic Electricity & Solar Installation
- Plumbing
- Welding & Metal Fabrication
- Carpentry & Joinery
- Hairdressing
- Barbery
- Blacksmithing
- Tailoring & Design
- Catering & Hospitality
- Fisheries
- Livestock & Animal Care
- Computer & ICT
- Vegetable Production
These skills are vital for the economic development of South Sudan, offering young people the tools to pursue various career paths and entrepreneurial ventures.
Key Speeches And Acknowledgments
Awut Deng Acuil, the National Minister of General Education and Instruction, praised the collaboration between UNESCO, ACROSS, and the TVET ministries. She emphasized the government’s commitment to making 2024 the “Year of TVET,” with a focus on education as a key driver for economic recovery. Acuil encouraged the youth to embrace skills development as a means to contribute to the nation’s economy.
Mathiang Deng Monydit, Acting Governor of Lakes State, expressed delight at the graduates’ achievements and urged all community members, regardless of gender, to participate in economic activities. He called for the abandonment of cultural norms that hinder women’s economic involvement.
Dr. Tap Raj Pant, UNESCO Chief of Education in South Sudan, appreciated the support from SIDA and the South Sudanese government. He highlighted the importance of investing in human capital, particularly youth, as a strategy for societal transformation and self-reliance.
Levi Mogga Yona, ACROSS Head of Programmes, applauded the successful collaboration and urged graduates to create sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families.
Voices From The Graduates
Martha Yar, a representative of the female graduates from the hairdressing class, expressed gratitude to UNESCO and ACROSS for empowering women through skills training. She highlighted the positive impact on women’s economic independence and called for greater support from the state government to ensure women’s participation in economic activities.
Project Goals And Impact
The SIDA-funded project aims to:
- Reduce Unemployment: By providing relevant skills training, the project addresses the high unemployment rates among youth.
- Boost Livelihoods: Graduates are equipped to improve their economic conditions and support their families.
- Promote Gender Equality: The project strengthens gender-responsive governance and supports women’s participation in economic activities.
- Enhance Environmental Awareness: Training includes elements of climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability.
- Reduce Communal Conflicts: By improving economic opportunities, the project aims to reduce the incidence of internal conflicts.
Conclusion
The graduation of over 700 students from the Rumbek and Yirol TVET centers represents a significant achievement in South Sudan’s efforts to enhance vocational education and empower youth. Through the support of UNESCO, SIDA, and local partners, this initiative is set to foster economic growth, reduce unemployment, and promote gender equality. As these graduates embark on their new careers, they bring hope and opportunity to their communities, contributing to the broader goals of national development and stability.
