Uganda

A successful project for the future of vocational training in Uganda

How can sustainable development cooperation be achieved on an equal footing? Our project ‘Welded Together’ shows how practical training, intercultural exchange and innovative learning methods can combine to create new perspectives.

The starting point: needs-based and practice-oriented

Uganda is a country with great potential – but in the field of vocational training in particular, there is often a lack of practical relevance, modern equipment and content relevant to the labour market. During a delegation trip by the State Chancellery of Saxony in July 2023, we were able to learn about the challenges on site and develop initial approaches for cooperation.

The Bildungswerk der Sächsischen Wirtschaft (bsw) responded with a targeted project: practical training and digital learning formats were to be used to qualify teachers in the field of welding, adapt curricula and provide new impetus for vocational training – all in the spirit of sustainable, future-oriented development.

The course of the project: Strong partnerships – strong impact

Trainings in Hoima

Two welding training courses at St. Simon Peter's Vocational Training Centre in Hoima (western Uganda) marked the start of the project. Instead of focusing on advanced technology, the emphasis was on basic welding techniques, workplace safety and direct applicability. A particularly innovative feature was virtual welding training using VR technology, which enabled practical learning regardless of the equipment available on site.

Further training in Germany

In October 2024, ten Ugandan teachers travelled to Saxony for intensive further training. Between Hoima, Berlin, Dresden and Schwarzenberg, they not only experienced new climatic and cultural impressions, but also deepened their specialist knowledge of arc welding, TIG welding and MAG welding. Company visits and practical exercises completed the programme.

A digital learning module in English supplements the learning process and is also available via bsw's own learning management system.

We were supported in the organisation by our local partner, Katosi Women Development Trust, the official representative of the Uganda-Saxony partnership.

 Project goals and results

• Teachers received in-depth training at an international level – including virtual welding technology and methodological and didactic aspects.
• Practical, market-oriented content was used to teach skills that are urgently needed in Uganda.
• The use of VR welding systems has given vocational training a future-oriented impulse – conserving resources and providing a realistic experience.
• A comprehensive curriculum, permanent platform access, trained multipliers and close cooperation lay the foundation for long-term success.
• Whether it's city tours in Dresden and Berlin, an excursion to the Fichtelberg or a reception at the State Chancellery of Saxony – personal exchanges strengthen mutual understanding and build bridges for future projects.

Despite challenges such as limited equipment and resources on site, one thing has become clear: the Ugandan partners' motivation to learn, commitment and trust are impressive. The cooperation with St. Simon Peter's Vocational Institute, the Katosi Women Development Trust, ENS e.V. and committed actors in Saxony shows how development cooperation can succeed on an equal footing.

We are proud of what we have achieved – and what will grow from it. Further joint projects are already in the planning stage. Because genuine partnerships weld people together.

Funded by state funds from the Free State of Saxony via the State Chancellery of Saxony.