Safeguarding and Inclusion Training Strengthens TVET Institutions

The Entrepreneurship Development Institute holds a fundamental belief: a safe and inclusive environment is the bedrock of quality education. This core principle drives every initiative we undertake, and it is with great pride that we announce a major step forward for the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) sector.

In a landmark effort, our SEED program, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has successfully completed Safeguarding TOT and Inclusion Sensitization Trainings, delivered through the SEED program in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation for 59 leaders from TVET institutions across the region. This initiative is about more than just a training session; it's a strategic investment in the well-being and future of our youth.

This training was designed to be intensely practical and collaborative. Participants—including safeguarding focal persons, deans, and vice deans did not just receive information; they were empowered to create lasting change.

The journey began with each institution conducting a thorough organizational self-assessment. This critical first step allowed leaders to identify their unique strengths and pinpoint specific gaps in their existing safeguarding policies and practices.

Following this, the training moved from theory to action. Participants worked closely with facilitators to develop concrete, actionable plans tailored to their institutions. These plans focused on crucial areas such as risk assessment, establishing robust codes of conduct, and creating clear systems for reporting and responding to incidents. The goal was to equip them with the tools and strategies to create a culture of safety that is proactive, not just reactive.

The impact of this training is designed to create a powerful ripple effect. The 59 leaders who completed the program are now equipped to cascade this essential knowledge to all staff members and students within their institutions. This ensures that the principles of safeguarding and inclusion are not limited to a few, but are woven into the very fabric of the TVET community.

With 23 male and 36 female participants, this inclusive training is a powerful step toward embedding a culture of safety and respect across the entire TVET sector. These leaders are now equipped to cascade this essential knowledge to all staff and students.

Our work is far from over. This is the first of several rounds of training, and we are excited to announce that we will reach the remaining 47 TVET institutions in the near future. Together, we are building a safer, more inclusive future for the next generation of skilled professionals.