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A student in carpentry class applies himself to the task
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Since May 2007, forty-nine students have been involved in a vocational skills training program in Dili designed to help reintegrate socially vulnerable youth back into their communities.
Students enrolled into the program are youth who have been in conflict with the law, or living and working on the streets with unstable living conditions.
The six month vocational training program offers courses in carpentry and electronic skills, alongside with character building training, recreational activities and involvement in peace clubs. World Vision also conducts similar activities for juvenile justice offenders in prison.
“I really enjoy this program because as child I did not continue my studies in school but this program can offer me the opportunity to learn,” said an electronics student of the program.
“Every day I attend the training because it broadens my thinking and helps me to prepare myself for the future.”
After 3 months in the training program, students of electronic stream have basic skills in repairing televisions, radios, tape recorders and DVD players. Carpentry students have learnt how to make household furniture such as tables and chairs.
“The program is not only helping to equip children at risk with vocational skills, but it is also helping to change their behaviours and attitudes,” said Jacob Calar, Project Co-ordinator. “Through the character building and spiritual nurture sessions, we give children the opportunity to reflect on their objectives in life and their attitudes."
"We have seen students begin to show more respect to each other over the last few months, through simple things such as manners and greeting staff members”.
World Vision delivers the program in partnership with UNICEF, working closely with the Department of Social Services and the Ministry of Justice.
Alongside the Department of Social Services, World Vision staff assist in the case management of each child enrolled in the vocational program through home visits and reintegration assistance.
Contact has already been made with the Ministry of Education to help with reintegrating 22 students back into the formal schooling system in September after the completion of their training course.
More about World Vision's work in East Timor
