Vocational Training
Computer Studies
Skillshare International Botswana has been offering Computer Studies since 2011. The course was accredited by Botswana Qualification Authority and examined by Madirelo Training and Testing Centre. The maximum annual enrolment was 20 students per year from 2011 to 2016. A total number of the student for those years was 102 (47 females and 55 males). The students who passed without repeating were 54 (23 female and 31 males). 48 (24 females and 24 males) Learners who did not do well were given an opportunity to re-sit and the last ones did the re-sit in 2017, 24 (9 females and 15 males) passed.
Therefore, the total number of students graduated increased to 78 (32 females and 46 males). Some of those who still did not do well after the re-sit opted for other courses. This course attracted the highest number of youth, from 17 to 25 years. The subjects included; Computer Programming, Computer Hardware Fundamentals, Networking and Internet, Entrepreneurship, Computer Application Communication Skills and Arithmetic. The lessons developed computer skills and business skills to the learners. Learners acquired skills on how to troubleshoot computer problems, how to install software applications, using Microsoft office packages as well as a platform to learn how to start their own businesses. Some of the graduates formed a group and started internet cafes in the camp as a form of self-sustenance.
Seven of 2012 and 2014 graduates, consisting of 5 males and 2 females who got scholarships to further their studies at the University of Botswana, indicated that the skills they got were of value. They explained that with the skills, it’s easier to carry out research, write assignments and prepare presentations. As give back, some of the graduates volunteered their time to assist other refugees with basic computer skills. The lessons were put on hold due to financial limitations but are scheduled to restart during 2018.
Youth in the Computer Lab
UoP Students in the Computer Lab
UoP Student In the Computer Lab
Electrical Installation
We have been offering the Electrical Installation course Dukwi refugee camp by Skillshare International since 2011. In 2016, 12 (2 females and 10 female) sat for the national trade test C examinations. That s included refugees from Zimbabwe (2), Somalia (2), Namibia (4) and Batswana (4). Ten trainees passed. The two who did not do well were advised to re-sit at MTTC on a private arrangement at their convenient time. However, the trainees did not manage to re-sit due to financial constraints. All trainees’ ages ranged between 18 and 59 years, (productive age for labour market). They were trained in both domestic and industrial use, Electrical motor control circuits and basics electrical circuits’ calculations. The training mostly targeted people with experience but without qualification, particularly those who did not complete secondary education.
One of the trainees who is currently self-employed said that the skills he acquired have enabled him to earn a living. “I am grateful for the opportunity that SKIB offered me to train as an electrician. I plan to further my studies in electrical installation this year (2018) at a government technical school. I encourage other youth to enrol in Vocational courses as the skills they will acquire will enable them to earn a living through maintenance jobs like I do” said Brilliant Nyoni of Zimbabwean origin residing at Dukwi refugee camp. The course has since been discontinued due to financial limitations.
Students during their training
Students Discussing about Electrical Installations
Students doing Electrical Installation
Testimony
Since completion, in 2016, I have earned a living from short-term contracts of electrifying tuckshops, houses in the camp and neighboring villages. I am hoping that one day a Good Samaritan will come by and provide Skillshare International Botswana vocational training center with funds to help other young people to explore vocational studies.