South Sudan: SYESI transforms lives and offers a promising future

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JUBA,South Sudan – Sawak Lwataza walks confidently among the tables and guests of the luxurious Imperial Plaza Hotel,a young woman who has finally found her place in the workforce. Not long ago,like many of her peers,she struggled to find a job. “Before I trained at the Juba Multi-Service Training Centre (MTC),getting a job was almost impossible,” Lwataza recalls. “I decided to dedicate three months to the course,believing that a certificate could open doors for me.”

Her story reflects a broader trend: the impact of the Skills for Youth Employability and Social Inclusion (SYESI) Project,a $1.866 million initiative funded by the African Development Fund and implemented in partnership with UNDP and South Sudan’s Ministry of Labour. The program equips youth with technical skills aligned with labor market demands while promoting social inclusion.

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With a certificate in hospitality and catering operations,Lwataza achieved her dream. “I’ve always wanted to work in the hospitality sector. This training made that possible,” she says,smiling with pride and relief. Biar Bol Deng,another SYESI graduate,completed a three-month chef training program at MTC and now enjoys a strong position in the labor market. “Before the training,hotels turned me away because I lacked the necessary skills. Today,I’m the one choosing which job offers to accept,” he says.

SYESI is not only opening doors to employment but also encouraging entrepreneurship. Elijah Ngor Anok,a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering student,supplemented his academic studies with practical electrical installation training at MTC. This experience,combined with his certificate,helped him secure an internship at the Juba Electric Distribution Company and later launch his own business. “On a good day,I can earn 250,000 South Sudanese Pounds (around $1,920),enough to cover university fees and support my family,” he explains.

Martin Lugala Tomba,Director of MTC,highlights the center’s transformation: “Our training programs have multiplied over the last five years,covering hospitality,IT,construction,electrical and solar installation,and road safety. Support from the African Development Bank has been essential in diversifying our courses and attracting youth with different interests.” James Hoth Mai,South Sudan’s Minister of Labour,emphasizes the importance of creating a business-friendly environment: “We must generate job opportunities and foster conditions for youth entrepreneurship. Only then can we achieve sustainable economic growth,” he notes.

Since 2020,nearly 2,000 young people have benefited from SYESI,exceeding initial targets. The program demonstrates that combining technical training,career guidance,and practical opportunities can transform lives,even in a country facing high youth unemployment. For many young people in Juba,SYESI represents more than a certificate: it is a gateway to independence,entrepreneurship,and a brighter,more stable future in South Sudan.