The project will directly benefit 64,000 people and over 110,000 people indirectly.
Implemented by World Vision in collaboration with Action for Children Development Foundation South Sudan (ACDF), the HDP Nexus project primarily benefits internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, women and children.
Last week, a graduation ceremony for the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses was held in Akuem payam of Aweil East County, marking a significant advancement in South Sudan’s technical education sector.
The first cohort of nearly 100 young adults in Aweil East and Aweil North counties in Northern Bahr el Ghazal completed training in various fields, including carpentry, motor vehicle mechanics, hairdressing, tailoring and computer studies.
With their newly acquired skills, 92 TVET graduates, including 50 women are now equipped to enhance business opportunities and services in their communities.
The Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at German Embassy in South Sudan, Dr. Björn Niere, the Country Director of World Vision South Sudan, Dr. Mesfin Loha, the Executive Director of ACDF South Sudan, Regina Ajok Deng and other key government stakeholders attended the graduation ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Niere expressed pride in witnessing the remarkable achievement made possible through the German development cooperation.
He urged the graduates to empower communities through the skills acquired.
The World Vision County Director thanked Germany for supporting efforts to reach the most vulnerable people, particularly those-affected by conflict in the region.
He affirmed World Vision’s commitment to contribute to the protection of South Sudan’s future generations by focusing on programs that ensure children are well-nourished and thriving
The official urged the graduates to seize the opportunity they have been given to change their lives and contribute to the communities in Northern Bahr El Ghazal.
Andrew Awech Garang, an auto mechanics graduate also expressed his delight.
“We will utilize the new skills we have acquired over the past six months. This is a commitment to our families and communities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Germany, World Vision and ACDF for your generosity and kindness,” said Garang.
“We are now capable of crafting furniture, processing data, tailoring dresses and styling hair,” he added.
The NEXUS-Project is designed to accelerate stabilization and strengthen the resilience of conflict-affected households, communities, and local systems.
Launched in August 2022, the project reportedly aims to strengthen community resilience against natural and man-made shocks and crises through improved community-based disaster risk reduction and conflict resolution systems. It also promotes sustainable food security and income generation of communities.