The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) in Sierra Leone, led by Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, has formed a strategic partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Sierra Leone. This partnership focuses on enhancing skills in the informal vocational sector, aligning with President Julius Maada Bio’s Human Capital Development agenda.
Dr. Wurie has taken an innovative approach by working with partners like UNDP to launch a pilot project aimed at improving both technical and soft skills. This initiative supports youth engaged in the informal Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. The project focuses on two key sectors: heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) in Freetown and building and masonry in Kenema, both with high employment potential.
This program includes Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which allows participants to formalize their skills through certification. By partnering with Freetown Polytechnic and Eastern Technical University, the initiative ensures that both youth and trainers are better equipped to sustain vocational training efforts for future generations.
The program also prioritizes gender equality, encouraging young women to participate in fields traditionally dominated by men. This aligns with Sierra Leone’s commitment to empowering women across all economic sectors.
The partnership culminated in a certification ceremony for participants who now hold qualifications to advance in these growing industries. The event also involved the Local Content Agency, which will include these newly trained professionals in the national skills database to ensure they are prioritized for future job opportunities.
This initiative demonstrates the impact of partnerships like the one between MTHE and UNDP in empowering youth and contributing to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic growth. Through this effort, the country builds a brighter future for its young professionals.
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