On Sunday, February 18, 2023, Hope of Family's Education Department made a significant visit to students enrolled in the “Youth Economic Empowerment Program" at Padri Vjeko Vocational Training Center where they are persuading technical and Vocational subjects.

Hope of Family’s Youth Economic Empowerment Program designed to uplift rural youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, has been instrumental in providing a second chance for those who couldn't pursue normal education or faced barriers to employment or higher studies. The program offers opportunity for the youths hailing from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to attend various technical and vocational subjects such as tailoring, welding, carpentry, and masonry, following their participation in the leadership academy where they receive comprehensive training on entrepreneurship, leadership, reproductive health, and human rights. This holistic approach equips them with technical skills, fosters personal growth and leadership development.

During the visit, staff members and parents engaged with students, discussing their educational progress, skill development, job prospects, leadership growth, personal development, impact on their families after graduation, and future aspirations. Notably, the present of the parents, highlight the program's initiatives on parental involvement in their children's education.

Currently, 47 youths are enrolled in the TVET school, with 24 focusing on tailoring, 17 on welding, 3 on carpentry, and 3 on masonry. This initiative follows extensive research conducted by the Hope of Family, which revealed that 704 youths in Shyogwe Sector had not completed their education and were struggling with unemployment. At Shyogwe Sector, the Youth unemployment rate stands at 34%, 66% of these youths had not finished high school, underscoring the urgent need for interventions like Youth Economic Empowerment Program.

Youth enrolled in the program expressed gratitude for the knowledge imparted through the leadership academy, citing enhanced decision-making abilities and a readiness to seize opportunities post-graduation.

Through this program, Hope of Family continues to be a beacon of hope for disadvantaged youth, paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come.