‘WE ARE PROUD OF WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED TOGETHER SO FAR’

In Iganga, Uganda, stands the Prime Vocational Institute (PVI). Founded in 2012, the institute has increasingly focused on providing hands-on education in various vocational fields. In an interview with Harriet Kwebwawera, the head of the school, we discuss the positive changes that have resulted from the collaboration with Gered Gereedschap, which was made possible with the support of ASML Foundation.

Harriet begins by sharing the background of the Prime Vocational Institute. “Our institute was established in response to the high school dropout rate in the Busoga Subregion. Many young people are unable to pay school fees due to poverty and other challenges. We want to give them the opportunity to develop skills that will help them find work and lead better lives,” she explains. PVI offers training in various fields, including automotive mechanics, carpentry, fashion design, and electrical engineering, focusing on both national and local certification courses.

COLLABORATION WITH GERED GEREEDSCHAP

The collaboration with Gered Gereedschap has been crucial to the success of the institute. Harriet emphasizes, “Gered Gereedschap has supported us in various ways, from providing scholarships to offering tools and training for our teachers.” So far, 105 students have benefited from the scholarships, which are specifically aimed at disadvantaged youth. “These scholarships are life-changing for them. Without this support, they would not be able to pursue vocational education.”

IMPACT OF SCHOLARSHIPS

During the first phase of the collaboration, 35 students received scholarships, with the majority studying metalwork and carpentry. In the second phase, which is nearing completion, another 35 scholarships have been awarded. Harriet proudly shares, “Of these students, 19 are in electrical engineering and 16 in automotive mechanics. We have also selected 35 students for the next phase, 13 in construction and 22 in fashion design.” These scholarships offer students the opportunity to develop skills that help them find work or even start their own businesses.

IMPROVED TRAINING METHODS

In addition to scholarships, Gered Gereedschap has also provided tools and equipment essential for practical training. “Previously, we had trouble obtaining the right tools for our classes,” says Harriet. “Thanks to the support of Gered Gereedschap, we now have high-quality tools that are difficult to find in Uganda. This has greatly improved the quality of our training.”

The graduates also receive starter kits, allowing them to immediately start working as self-employed individuals. Harriet adds, “These kits are very important. They enable our students to start their own businesses and build a life after completing their education.”

PROFESSIONALIZATION OF EDUCATION

The first phase of the collaboration focused on metalwork and carpentry, but now the second phase is centered on electrical engineering and motor vehicle technology. Part of this collaboration also involves aligning the curriculum with local labor market demands. Harriet says, “We want to ensure that our students are well-prepared for the needs of employers in the region.”

FUTURE PROSPECTS

With the second phase of the collaboration nearing its end, Harriet looks to the future with confidence. “We have already started the third phase, focusing on new fields of study. The collaboration with Gered Gereedschap has not only helped us improve education but has also brought about real change in the lives of our students.”