Abdullahi Ismail | BORESHA Project
Unemployment rate in Somalia is quite high, this is in part attributable to the decades long conflict, lack of skills, lack of access to employment opportunities and a negative attitude towards entrepreneurship, especially among the youth. Youth unemployment is not just an issue for Gedo region where BORESHA operates in but for Somalia as a whole, and one key contributing factor is the education system.
Currently there is a bias towards white collar jobs and an over emphasis on the more traditional path of college and university. This is despite the fact blue collar jobs, those that are practical and industrial focused, are the primary drivers of the Somalia economy. Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) offer a solution. By imparting practical knowledge and skills that lead directly to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, the institutions produce graduates with the capacity to spur economic and social growth and that is where as BORESHA we have focused.
Meet Muhyadin
Muhuyadin a twenty-two-year-old, newly married young man that lives in Dollow, Somalia. He was enrolled in our TVET classes where he undertook a 6-month computer class in order to get the necessary skills to fend for himself and his family. Like any other young person, Muhyadin is a very resourceful young man that needs to be given an opportunity in order to make something of himself. DRC Somalia through BORESHA project helped him with TVET training skills that has provided him skills and knowledge and it has changed his life by providing better living conditions and ability to be employed in this field.
“Previously I was computer illiterate and had no knowledge on how to operate the computer and no tangible skills which could market me in order to compete for a job, my parents were providing all my basic needs” says Muhyadin. His trainers have described him as an eager young man that is always ready and willing to learn, this is the spirit required from any young man that wants to make something of himself in Dollow where opportunities are limited.
Job Opportunity
“I can now operate a computer as compared to a few months ago where I could not operate or handle one, currently I am working with Dahabshil which is the largest African money transfer business operating in many countries around the world, it was set up as a new remittance venture to enable migrants to send money to family and friends back home. I earn a monthly salary of 150 USD which sustains my young family” sayid Muhyadin. One of the main reasons Muhyadin got this opportunity is because of the computer skill he acquired courtesy of the six months intensive hands on training provided by BORESHA considering the job requires advanced computer skills.
“Due to lack of skills and knowledge, life was very had especially for a grown up like me living with his parents who is waiting to build new life, I had to ask my parents for everything I needed considering that they were also struggling to cater for the needs of my siblings as well, however I now have the necessary skills, married an amazing wife and I am able to provide all the basic needs for my family”. Muhyadin said.
“I am now grateful to DRC particularly BORESHA project “said Muhuyadin. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions play an important role in equipping young people to enter the world of work and in improving their employability throughout their careers. In collaboration with the local authority and other key stakeholders we are committed to increasing practical skills and capacity for the youth to bridge the demand and supply gap in the local economy in order for them to better their lives. We will continue to invest in TVETs since we believe it is one of the sure ways to secure the future of Somalia since it guarantees long term productivity and economic sustainably.