The issue of unemployment persists globally, prompting governments to focus on vocational skills to empower graduates for the job market.

For the past three years, Handwerkskammer Koblenz, also known as the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts (CSC Koblenz), has been implementing the 'PartnerAfrica' project.

This initiative aimed to empower TVET graduates by providing access to improved employment opportunities, better career prospects, and the chance to become successful entrepreneurs.

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The initiative commenced on January 1, 2021, and concluded with the final workshop on Tuesday, February 13. The project was executed collaboratively by Rwanda Polytechnic (RP), Rwanda Private Sector Federation (RPSF), and CSC Koblenz.

The courses provided encompassed practical training in automotive, solar technology, and construction. Additionally, another ongoing initiative under the CSC Koblenz named the "Regional TVET Project," slated to conclude in October 2026, is currently underway across Uganda, Burundi, and Rwanda.

Since its inception in January 2021, 'PartnerAfrica' has made significant strides. Among its achievements are the establishment of a Bachelor of Technology program (B.Tech), accredited as Level 8 under the Rwanda TVET Qualification Framework (RTQF).

Over 535 trainees, including in-company trainers underwent comprehensive training and are now qualified to conduct in-company training sessions. The project also initiated coaching and support measures tailored for start-up SMEs.

Additionally, it developed two BTech curricula focused on the Construction and Automotive sectors, including 12 BTech Training of Trainers (ToT) workshops, and delivered 35 technical upgrading courses for technical staff and trainers.

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The project provided individual and group consultations, along with workshops for start-ups in Kigali and six districts.

It also hosted three workshops addressing cross-cutting topics and facilitated 10 workshops for curriculum development and start-up consultations, benefiting over 600 participants across six districts.

Moreover, in collaboration with Energy Private Developers (EPD), the project conducted a survey titled "Exploring Gender Dynamics in Rwanda's Energy Sector."

Dr Sylvie Mucyo, the Vice Chancellor of Rwanda Polytechnic, emphasized that the project has been instrumental in offering demand-oriented courses, crucial for bridging the skills gap in the industry.

This initiative is particularly timely as Rwanda aims to achieve a 60% enrollment rate in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) this year.

"Partner Africa Project support includes skills development in the private sector, curriculum development, especially for the Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Construction Technology and Automotive Technology, Training of Trainers for B.Tech and staff exchange to teach on these programs. These programs bridge the skills gap and address the pressing needs of our industries through equipping students with knowledge, practical skills to apply cutting-edge technologies thus providing a transformative impact to the wider society."

"As of today, the two B.Tech programs developed for RP with support of the project are currently implemented. Months later, five more programs were developed and are currently being implemented. We have more than 500 students enrolled in B.Tech Programs. Trainers, both from academia and industry, have been trained on different contents including technical didactics, and equipment have been procured through the project,” Mucyo said.

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Future prospects and dual learning

In a press interview, Ralf Hellrich, the CEO of CSC Koblenz, emphasized the importance of vocational and educational training, citing their extensive experience in the field.

"We have extensive experience in vocational and educational training. I firmly believe that introducing vocational education and training is crucial for Rwanda's economy. It equips people with valuable skills and knowledge. Our mission is clear: to contribute to this endeavor by leveraging our expertise. We have carefully selected sectors that play a pivotal role in driving economic growth. Through our efforts, we aim to make an impact on workforce development.”

Speaking on the implementation journey, he continued: "It was challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making it difficult for us to travel and gather necessary support. However, the project gained momentum in its final year, thanks to the dedicated efforts of our partners.

I believe it's a sustainable initiative that holds the potential to boost Rwanda's economic growth."

Hellrich envisions Rwanda as a country where dual learning can thrive, much like it does in Germany. "The difference is not significant," he remarked.

"Graduates in Germany also attain Master's and bachelor's degrees at a professional level. Introducing a Bachelor in Technology at technical universities in Rwanda is providing graduates with more practical knowledge."

"In the BTech program, practical vocational training is integrated with university education, which has been successful in Germany and could be scaled in Rwanda. Publicizing vocational training and practical jobs, not just in universities but also in vocational training, is crucial. This approach allows graduates to showcase their skills, addressing various societal challenges."

"This is crucial for addressing the challenges faced by any state worldwide, as engineers are essential for tasks such as repairing cars, constructing skyscrapers or roads, and installing photovoltaic systems, among others. It hinges on individuals possessing the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively and repair systems. Germany's dual system of education provides a significant advantage in this regard. I hope that Rwanda will adopt a similar approach."

Dual learning entails a unique approach where students integrate academic studies with practical work experience. This model allows students to engage in real-world professions several days a week, alternating with traditional classroom education on other days.

The companies hosting students are tasked with ensuring that students receive comprehensive and high-quality training aligned with the standards set forth in the training descriptions for their respective trades.

Honorine Dukuzimana, a student enrolled in the BTech program and a participant in the project, is currently undergoing dual learning. While pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Automotive Technology, she also works at Garage Atecar. According to her, this arrangement offers numerous advantages.

"I am assigned tasks that align with my evolving skills. If my company decides to offer me an employment contract after my dual education period, they will benefit from having an employee who is familiar with the company's operations. I also gain valuable knowledge from experienced colleagues, both in technical skills and soft skills. This enables me to develop in real-world conditions and determine early on whether I am suited for this career path. Moreover, I have the opportunity to earn money to support my needs while pursuing my education."

Claude Uwimanimpaye, on the other hand, underwent vocational training that led to employment opportunities.

"After completing my studies, I secured employment. The training sessions were conducted in Musanze, where we spent ten consecutive days learning about sustainable construction materials, particularly bamboo. In Rwanda, bamboo trees were previously overlooked and often went to waste. However, we discovered their potential for building eco-friendly houses. Unlike traditional timber, bamboo grows rapidly after being cut, as new leaves sprout from the stalk. This process encourages further growth, making bamboo a sustainable resource.”

"We were also familiarized with tools that assist in ensuring safety during house construction. Although bamboo house construction is not yet common in Rwanda, it is gaining interest, particularly among resorts. We have been recruited for such projects, as bamboo structures offer resilience against disasters such as earthquakes. However, there is a need for additional equipment in Rwanda. For instance, during the construction of a three-story bamboo house, we primarily relied on equipment provided by the project. But bamboo has various other applications, including making chairs for swimming pools, hotels, homes, and beds, among others.

Ephrem Musonera, Deputy Vice Chancellor overseeing Academics, Research, and Institutional Advancement at Rwanda Polytechnic, underscored the "invaluable support from experienced German counterparts, both technically and financially, in launching BTech programs.”

He highlighted the progress made to meet the country's need for new standards and programs addressing societal challenges while enabling students to also seek work abroad if they want to. The successful pilot phase led to the establishment of 23 BTech programs, with 16 more awaiting accreditation. Enrollment, requiring an advanced diploma, is offered annually, with the first batch set to graduate soon, aiming to alleviate current job market challenges.

About Handwerkskammer Koblenz

The Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts, situated in Koblenz, Germany, is anl entity among the 53 chambers of crafts in the country. Boasting over 20,000 member companies, it stands as the largest among the four Rhineland-Palatinate Chambers of Crafts.

Operating as a self-governing institution within the economy, the Koblenz Chamber of Crafts acts as a representative body for skilled trades, advocating their interests in relation to politics, business, and administration.

Among its responsibilities are regulating vocational training, overseeing the technical examination system, managing the register of craftsmen and apprentices, and providing legal supervision to craft guilds within its jurisdiction. Member companies benefit from a range of services, including free consulting on business, legal, technical, and design matters.

Additionally, the Chamber offers fee-based services in technical and commercial areas through its Service GmbH. Notably, it engages in partnership and qualification projects across South-East Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa. For more information visit: https://info.hwk-koblenz.de/.