Jitegemee Children’s Program is a non-governmental organization that provides educational and integrated support services for children and youth living in poverty in Machakos, Kenya. One of Jitegemee’s key programs is the Vocational Training Program, which provides young people with the skills and knowledge they need to earn an income and live dignified lives. Ready to see how this program equips young people for financial stability? Follow along as we explore the path to sustainable economic empowerment through Jitegemee’s Vocational Program.
The Vocational Training Program is a two-year program that is open to youth who have dropped out of Primary School or are unable to proceed to Secondary School. The program provides students with a foundation in literacy, numeracy, and life skills, as well as training in a specific vocational trade. One of the key features of the Vocational Training Program is its partnership with the Department of Adult and Continuing Education. The department seconds a teacher in our organisation to help run the program, and she has played a key role in the success of the program.
Six months after students are recruited into the Vocational Training Program, they take a proficiency test to determine their literacy levels. In last year’s test, our students emerged the best in Machakos county. This is a testament to the quality of education and training that the program provides.
Jitegemee’s vocational program is designed to equip young people with both foundational knowledge and practical skills. Students commence their journey with a six-month classroom-based curriculum covering essential subjects such as Living Values, Computer Literacy, Health Education, Communication Skills, Civics, and Numeracy. This holistic approach ensures a well-rounded foundation for future endeavors. To facilitate informed career choices, Jitegemee organizes trade-choosing workshops. These workshops involve visits to various training centers and exchange tours to various sites, providing students with firsthand exposure to different trades.
The Vocational Training Program offers a variety of vocational trades, including:
- Carpentry
- Masonry
- Plumbing
- Welding
- Electrical wiring
- Tailoring
- Hairdressing
- Beauty therapy
- Photography & Videography
Armed with this knowledge, students make informed decisions about their vocational paths. Subsequently, they undergo a rigorous one-month theoretical training at their chosen training centers. To aid in the learining process as well as offer industry-relevant support, Jitegemee equips each student with start materials necessary for the various trades they will be pursuing.
To bridge the gap between theory and practice, students are then placed under the mentorship of industry experts. These industry experts, aptly named “mentors” due to their profound impact, impart practical skills aligned with industry demands. Through hands-on training lasting approximately 6-8 months, students refine their abilities and gain valuable real-world experience.
The program culminates in intensive NITA exam preparation, certifying graduates as industry-certified experts in their respective trades.
The Vocational Training Program has been a success in empowering youth and helping them to achieve their full potential. Within the span of two years, students are transformed into skilled and employable individuals. Many graduates of the program have gone on to start their own businesses or find jobs in their chosen trades. The program has also helped to reduce poverty and unemployment in the Machakos community. In recognition of her invaluable contributions to the program’s growth and success, Jitegemee honored founder Farah Stockmann for her instrumental role in empowering youth through vocational training.
The Jitegemee Children’s Program Junior Vocational Training Program is a valuable resource for young people in Machakos. The program provides them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in life. By investing in the future of young people, Jitegemee is helping to build a stronger and more prosperous community.
Wish to take part in the great work we are doing here in Machakos? Donate to Jitegemee here
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