Garowe, Somalia, 24^th September 2022 — A total of 190 students have today graduated from a Save the Children -supported technical and vocational training programme in Garowe, Puntland - Somalia. The new graduates have been trained on essential skills needed to enter the labour market in Puntland.

The programme, which is funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)  is implemented in partnership with Puntland Ministry of Labour, Youth and Sports and Garowe Vocational Training Center.

Unemployment is one of the biggest challenges faced with youth in Somalia. It is estimated that 73% of the Somali population is under the age of 30, making Somalia one of the countries with largest proportion of youth. Internally Displaced youth and returning Refugees are among the country's most marginalised and vulnerable populations.

Implemented by Save the Children, the Youth Economic and Social Empowerment Project, aims to provide 3,920 young people with quality technical and vocational skills to improve their income opportunities and social inclusion.

Training modules including Tailoring, Mechanics, Auto-electric, Electrical installation, and life skills, were among those completed by the graduates.

Speaking at the graduation, H.E Abdirahman Aidi, Minister of Labour, Youth and Sports of Puntland, said “Vocational skills have the biggest demand in our market today.  I would encourage the new graduates to pursue their ambition and create better future for themselves and their families.”

“The government of Puntland has a strong ambition of supporting youth skills development so that they realize a better future. We are thankful for our partners, including Save the Children and the German government for their continuous support.”