2020 was an unprecedented year, Covid-19
challenged us greatly. We initiated TVET Agency, a programme that accompanies
our young people in their vocational training. The programme takes into account
the needs and strengths of former street children and is based on the Swiss
dual education system.
Young adults, who decide to take up a trade
after nine years of primary school, often complete an apprenticeship with a
"skilled" person, which lasts on average three years. This time is
not clearly structured. It consists of observing the "master", or supervisor,
and replicating what he or she demonstrates. There is no complementary
vocational school.
Apprentices are often overwhelmed by this
new situation. They have no direct contact person in the workplace to accompany
and support them in this important phase. They often drift through the
apprenticeship, in many instances losing the will to persevere. Conflicts arise
with the supervisor. When problems pile up, the obvious reflex is to withdraw:
stay away, drop out of the apprenticeship. Once again, street life
"beckons" - a portal to a dead-end situation. This is exactly where
the new programme comes in.
Our new concept combines 80 per cent
practical skills in the companies and 20 per cent theory with general
knowledge, including coaching in self and social confidence particularly
ethical values and sense of responsibility. Each apprentice works with the
"master" three weeks per month, on the fourth week the apprentice is with us for a
week of schooling and coaching.
Pilot phase 2021 / 2022
At present, we accompany nine young people
in the construction, catering, personal care and fashion sectors. There should
be twenty by mid-2022. The programme opened on 7 May 2021. The first training
week with apprentices took place from 31 May to 4 June.
At the same time, we offer teacher-training
workshops for their practicum masters. These "apprenticeship masters"
must be inspiring role models, know how to give constructive feedback, how to
reflect on achievements with the young trainees and how to set goals together
with the learners. This is unfamiliar territory for many young apprentices, but
it strengthens them and allows them to lead a self-directed life.
Text: Daniela Rüdisüli Sodjah, Founder and
Executive Director of CFC
