Course addresses need for technical skills relevant to labor market

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Tech Africa organized a 10-day bootcamp for electricians at its center in Karen, Kenya. The education was for youth who fall under the category of NEET (not involved in any education or employment training). This course is part of a program designed for domestic electricians and developed jointly by Don Bosco Tech Africa and Festo Didactic.

The program aims to address the growing need for technical skills relevant to the labor market, while also expanding opportunities for youth, who often face significant barriers to accessing education and employment. The course consisted of seven online learning modules and a final module focused on practical education.

Ten trainees took part in the intensive course, acquiring the basic skills needed to start working in the electrical sector under the supervision of an experienced electrician. The sessions covered safety in electrical workshops, the identification and use of tools and accessories, cable stripping and making connections, the assembly of distribution boards, circuit wiring, connecting sockets, preparing electrical and wiring diagrams, the operation of home automation systems, and the installation of basic solar power systems.

A Salesian explained, “To reinforce their practical experience, participants also visited a construction site where they observed real-world electrical installation procedures. This experience enabled them to link classroom learning with what’s happening in the field while deepening their understanding of workplace standards and professional expectations.”

This program is one of many initiatives, both online and in-person, which will continue to be developed to broaden access to skills development and provide a growing number of youth with practical, work-relevant skills.

The Salesian added, “The successful completion of the bootcamp reflects Don Bosco Tech Africa’s ongoing investment in innovative and inclusive technical and vocational education that meets the needs of the labor market. By equipping youth with practical skills and self-confidence, the initiative also helps to improve employability, self-sufficiency and long-term socio-economic inclusion.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Kenya – An intensive course for electricians: creating new pathways for vulnerable young people

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya