Job Service Office at Don Bosco Gatenga TSS Empowers Vulnerable Youth with Business Skills in a Training Session

The Gender Matters for Green TVET-Job Service Office at Don Bosco Gatenga TSS recently held a training session for vulnerable young girls and boys, aimed at equipping them with essential business skills to start and manage micro-businesses.

The training, which took place from the 5th to 6th September, 2024 focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of fundamental business principles such as financial management, marketing, and business planning.

It also aimed to build confidence and an entrepreneurial mindset among the attendees, encouraging them to pursue their business ideas.

According to Dieudonne Kwizera, the Job Service Officer at Don Bosco Gatenga TSS, “this training is also an opportunity for these young people to learn from each other.”

He explained that the training was aimed at graduates who completed their studies in both 2023 and 2024.

“In developing this training program, our focus was on various aspects. This included facilitating discussions with young people about their perspectives on the labor market, identifying existing challenges, and collaboratively devising solutions.” Kwizera said.

“Additionally, participants were equipped with business skills and knowledge on job creation. To further inspire and motivate our youth, we organized a special session featuring a young entrepreneur from the university who conducted a hands-on demonstration on soap making. This interactive workshop served as a unique and engaging method to encourage and empower the next generation.” He added.

The valuable training on job readiness from Master Trainer Potien Benegusenga highlighted the agenda of the training.

Benegusenga emphasizes the importance of communication skills, setting SMART goals, handling difficult customers, and even starting small businesses to eventually grow into larger ventures.

According to Benegusenga, many young people struggle when they enter the job market because they lack clear goals and an understanding of what is expected in the workforce.

“When they reach the labor market, they don’t have the capacity or financial support to start their own businesses. They also lack knowledge about what is done in the labor market,” Benegusenga explains.

Through this training, participants gained the necessary tools and knowledge to confidently navigate the job market, build their networks, and identify opportunities for growth in their chosen field.

“By visiting industries related to their skills and trades, these young professionals will be better prepared to achieve their career goals and make a positive impact in the workforce.” Benegusenga said.

In the meantime, these young individuals argue that there are additional obstacles in the labor market, particularly for girls who have completed technical courses.

Upon entering the workforce, they often encounter gender harassment in certain instances.

Ms. Hanyurwineza Mary, a graduate in Plumbing from 2023 promotion, emphasizes that sessions like these trainings, give them with valuable insights on how to navigate challenges in the labor market.

She underscores the importance of setting goals and staying proactive even during periods of unemployment, to ensure continual progress and growth.