Vocational Training Programme

In 2002, United Action for Children (UAC) established a Vocational Training Centre to provide disadvantaged street- and rural youth with skills they can use to find work. Vocational training makes students more attractive job candidates, as well as providing them with skills that can be used for self-employment and contract work. Most importantly, the Vocational Unit offers its classes free of charge, allowing youth who cannot afford government trade school tuition to develop their skills.

Aside from the direct benefits to the young people enrolled in the program, vocational training is an integral part of UAC’s program because it helps foster community-wide economic development, leading to more stable families and a safer environment for children to grow up in. Programs that encourage employment and self-sufficiency are particularly important in the context of Cameroon’s current economic shift toward development and consolidation of the private sector.

The Vocational Training Centre has grown impressively since 2002, thanks to the hard work of its staff, volunteers, and generous donations from UAC supporters, like the Qnamic company of Switzerland. Currently, the program includes training in woodwork, painting, and electricity. For example, students learn to build a wide range of furniture, such as chairs, cupboards, and tables. UAC is also proud to report that its vocational unit is currently the South West province leader in the production of educational puzzles and candle stands.

In addition to studying the theory and techniques of woodwork, painting, and electrical engineering, the Vocational Training Centre allows students to practically apply their skills by carrying out contract projects in the neighbouring communities as well as requiring them to complete an internship at the end of their studies. This internship not only reinforces students’ new skills but also provides them with an entry-point into the working world.

The Vocational Training Centre encountered problems early in 2007 when the rental contract for the workshop was terminated, limiting the possibility for providing the students with a practical education. Led by the efforts of two Dutch volunteers, Bram and Rosemarie, UAC built a permanent training centre on the new Star Site, consisting of two classrooms, a teachers’ office and a big workspace. In July 2007 the new building will be officially opened. UAC is currently looking for means to furnish the building and provide sufficient tools to offer practical education.

UAC strives to enable graduates from the Vocational Training Centre to be self employed. UAC is currently searching for international partners willing to help set up an entrepreneur course and micro-credit schemes to provide graduates with opportunities to start their own businesses in carpentry and electrical work. In the future, UAC would also like to include sewing in the vocational training program.