In the Local Skills Development for Youth (LSDY) project, unemployed young men and women from the Lake Victoria region, which is particularly affected by poverty, have access to modular, needs-oriented vocational education and training. Thanks to the training, they can earn their livelihood on their own as self-employed persons or employees and significantly improve their situation and that of their families. Furthermore, young entrepreneurs, who have already completed their vocational training courses in the last phase, are supported in professionalising their small businesses. Special focus is given to the access to coaching and financial services.

The project makes use of innovative vocational training approaches, whether through learning methods in a company (based on a dual vocational training) or work in learning groups. Young adults acquire practical and technical skills and are equipped with financial and life skills to take on their journey into professional life.

Project activities

1. Vocational training: basic and further training courses
   The project primarily focuses on vocational training and practical experience in companies.
2. Promotion of entrepreneurship
   Apart from technical skills, the project develops the business acumen of the trainees. In advanced courses, young adults learn how to plan their business, analyse customer needs, calculate profits and set prices.
3. Facilitate financial know-how and access to financial services
   The beneficiaries acquire basic financial literacy, which they can readily apply in savings and lending groups. The project also facilitates access to formal banks, savings and credit cooperatives and new innovative products, such as microleasing, tailored to the needs of young adults and entrepreneurs.
4. Strengthening social skills and self-competence
   Through its courses, the project develops social skills and self-competence of the youth, who are often caught up in a vicious cycle of poverty and frustration. For example, they learn about health, hygiene, safety and communication.
5. Networking young people with labour market
   Linkages between prospective employees with potential employers are facilitated through participation at fairs, internships etc.