The "Dual+ for Rural" project aims to develop training programmes that are tailored to rural realities. It will benefit 500 young people from vulnerable communities in the poorest regions of rural Rwanda and provide a model that can be adopted and scaled by local organisations.
Rwanda is facing strong demographic pressure due to the constant increase in its population. Although the education system has made significant progress – with the literacy rate among young people reaching 90% – getting young people into work remains a challenge. According to the World Bank, 18% of young Rwandans were unemployed in 2023. People living in rural areas are particularly affected, as their opportunities for training and employment remain limited.
The "Dual+ for Rural" project builds on the proven effectiveness of the dual technical and vocational training approach implemented in urban areas by Swisscontact. In partnership with local economic stakeholders, the authorities and the Rwanda TVET Board – the institution responsible for the development and quality of all technical and vocational education and training (TVET) – it aims to develop training programmes that are tailored to rural realities. The objective is to overcome the obstacles associated with distance from vocational training centres (travelling time, boarding costs, etc.) and develop a model that can work anywhere.
This pilot project will benefit 500 young people from vulnerable, rural communities in the poorest regions of Rwanda’s Western Province. Particular attention is paid to young people who have dropped out of school, young mothers and people with disabilities.
The project includes the following actions:
- Practical apprenticeship training provided by local artisans.
- Theoretical modules designed in collaboration with TVET schools and the private sector.
- Financial literacy and entrepreneurial mentoring for young people wishing to set up their own business.
- Access to official certification to validate the skills acquired.
Swisscontact plans to test the system in two districts to assess its effectiveness in different contexts. If the model proves successful in rural areas, the aim is to eventually incorporate it into the national education system. To ensure its long-term future, trainers, vocational training centres and companies will be trained in order to support and guide young people towards apprenticeships and professional integration.
