Saskatoon, Saskatchewan — Saskatchewan Polytechnic has extended an intercontinental helping hand to Weru Vocational Technical College in Kenya, announcing a partnership between the two schools that aims to improve automotive and welding programs in the country.
The partnership will see Sask Polytech faculty meeting virtually with their Kenyan counterparts to help develop training programs and, over the course of the next three years, supply and install state-of-the-art equipment at Weru College.
According to Sask Polytech’s press release, the school will enhance the skills of Kenyan instructors, conduct a comprehensive review and update of curriculum, develop new teaching and learning resources and organize exchange visits for Canadian and Kenyan faculty.
“Saskatchewan Polytechnic is excited by this innovative partnership to support young Kenyans and to help them gain the skills necessary for success,” said president and CEO of Sask Polytech Dr. Larry Rosia.
“Sask Polytech has been working with international partners for more than 30 years to help strengthen their own post-secondary institutions. Our automotive and welding training will prepare and equip young people for work opportunities that will grow the economy and transform their lives and communities.”
Funding for this project is provided by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) initiative.
The Young Africa Works TVET program is a $1.15 million project spearheaded by Nova Scotia Community College, along with Vancouver Community College, Kenya Coast National Polytechnic and Coast Institute of Technology.
“This project will create employment opportunities for youth in the region,” said Edward Lewah, principal of Weru Vocational Technical College.
“It is geared to contribute to a holistic development to both the trainers and trainees through the exchange of knowledge and skills. Weru Vocational Technical College is honoured and appreciates CICAN and MasterCard Foundation for making this project possible and special gratitude goes to Saskatchewan Polytechnic for being our lead partners in this project.”
