Digital VET for Young Africans (DVETYA)
Empowering marginalised youth with digital learning tools and market-relevant skills.
Young Africa and SERVE have come together to create the ‘Digital Vocational Education and Training for Young Africans’ programme.
About the Programme
Sub-Saharan Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, but youth unemployment remains a critical challenge. Geographic isolation, financial constraints, and systemic inequalities often prevent youth from accessing education and acquiring market-relevant skills. Traditional vocational training opportunities are particularly limited in rural areas for socio-economic disadvantaged Youth where they are highly needed.
The Digital VET for Young Africans (D-VETYA) project aims to change the above described reality by leveraging digital technology to bring education to underserved areas. In partnership with the EU, Young Africa eLearning Platform (YAeLP) ensures education is accessible regardless of location or economic status. YAeLP’s mobile-friendly, cost-effective, and flexible design enables learners to progress at their own pace.
Beyond technical education, D-VETYA emphasizes professional and personal holistic development. Courses cover topics such as financial literacy, communication, problem-solving, and health, ensuring graduates are strengthened in confidence, employability and resilience. The Postgraduate Service Toolbox (PGST) bridges education and employment with job placement, mentorship, and microcredit opportunities.
Objectives of the project
By targeting both access to education and pathways to employment, these objectives create a comprehensive roadmap for empowering Africa’s youth and fostering sustainable development.
Development of E-Learning Platform
Young Africa will develop a digital Vocational Training platform using the SADC qualification framework to fit the standards of 16 countries.
Development of Post Graduation Services Toolbox (PGST)
Graduates will have access to resources such as job placement services, mentorship programs, and access to microcredit opportunities aiming to ensure enhanced employability and financial independence for participants.
Expand Access to E-learning
The project foresees 8,150 youth from disadvantaged backgrounds to take at least one course on the E-Learning platform and for all of them getting access to the Post Graduation Service Toolbox.
Scale Training Networks
Young Africa’s approach of sharing their models is integral part of this project that aims to partner with at least 24 organisations to widen vocational training reach across at least 12 countries.
Expand YA TVET Reach (Zim)
Increase annual beneficiaries from 5,780 in 2023 to over 12,000 by 2026 through expanded facilities and innovative programmes.
Increase Economically Active Graduates (Zim)
Raise post-graduation employment or self-employment rates from 70% in 2023 to 80% by 2026, enhancing economic outcomes for YA graduates.
Strengthen TVET Collaboration (Zim)
Develop a private TVET provider network to share resources, foster innovation, and improve vocational education outcomes across Zimbabwe.
Share the model
We are committed to sharing this proven model with organisations across Africa. By partnering with us, you can leverage our platform, adopt ready-to-use curricula, and access resources like the Postgraduate Service Toolbox to support youth in your region. Together, we can create pathways to meaningful livelihoods and foster economic resilience for youth across sub-Saharan Africa.
Find out more on our Partner page.
Our impact so far
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