In the rural Nyanza region of Kenya, 40 young people stand on the brink of transforming their lives through an integrated education in STEM. Technical and entrepreneurial skills acquired from this WeLearn project will set these youth on the right trajectory to start careers within the emerging green economy.
Background and Implementation
The WeLearn Project
WeLearn is an innovative project implemented by WeTu Organization in cooperation with Siemens Stiftung and the County Government of Homabay, targeting fresh high school graduates. The program offers them practical vocational training to widen possibilities and arouse interest in further pursuing technical and vocational education and training.
Project Goals
According to Rebecca Ottmann, project manager, vocational orientation in Africa at Siemens Stiftung, the project is supposed to introduce rural youth to relevant technical skills and strengthen their capacity for future green jobs. The five-week course offers a myriad of choices for vocational learning and role models to rekindle interest in STEM careers, with a special focus on girls, since the participation of girls was 50%.
Training and Opportunities
Hands-on Learning
The WeTu hubs function as learning laboratories in real life, where students get hands-on experience in managing solar pumps, electric vehicle charging stations, and the installation of solar panels. Through this practice-based approach, participants acquire relevant technical skills with proper applicability in the green economy.
Focus on Inclusivity
One of the most important elements of the program is the gender inclusiveness aspect. The WeLearn project increases the potential towards a more inclusive future workforce and reduces high youth unemployment among poor fishing communities along Lake Victoria, with an equal number of female participants.
Expansion and Certification
Since November 2023, the project has trained numerous youth at WeTu solar water-energy hubs based in Mbita, Homa Bay County, before rolling out to Migori, Siaya, and Kisumu Counties. Another 15 participants underwent comprehensive training in readiness for the NITA exams. The successful candidates will be awarded IT certificates and qualifications as Solar Technicians, placing them at a very high level of employability.
Impact and Future Prospects
Empowering Youth
The WeLearn project supports the theme of World Youth Skills Day 2024: “Youth Skills for Peace and Development.” It is a way to ensure diversification in the workforce by giving relevant skills and training in career-readiness that would make workers competent enough to be recruited for emerging green and digital sector jobs.
Addressing Systemic Issues
Ottmann pointed out that recent events involving protests in Kenya have once more underlined the need and importance brought in by the involvement of youth in these great matters of decision-making. WeLearn, through the development of 21st-century skills, will help solve some systemic and structural problems that are important in unlocking the full potential within the young generation.
Success Stories
The project has already made a significant impact in many beneficiaries’ lives. Loydah Akinyi testifies that the career guidance given to her by WeLearn trainers made her realize that studying Highway Engineering, as had been her dreams, was possible. Similarly, Zadock Ywera found electrical engineering as his passion and is set on pursuing a course in solar installation.