Solar Learning Youth Centres
Creating equal opportunities through vocational training in solar technology
My way out of poverty
Kenya
Initial situation and challenges
Despite the well-developed primary school system in Kenya, secondary schools are not affordable for most families. This has led to a massive increase in juvenile delinquency and the number of criminal gangs dominated by young people over the last ten years.
In state-run youth homes, young people who have come into conflict with the law and disadvantaged young people who have experienced violence find a protected space to reintegrate into society – but there is a lack of career prospects.
At the same time, many regions in Kenya lack access to electricity. The growing solar sector offers an opportunity here: it urgently needs well-trained specialists. This is precisely where the project comes in.
Our approach
The Solar Learning Youth Centres project enables socially disadvantaged young people in Kenya to establish themselves professionally in the solar sector. This empowers them socially and economically – and helps to bring solar energy to regions that previously had no access to electricity.
Between 2024 and 2026, 305 young people will receive theoretical and practical training in three facilities. They will learn:
- Basic knowledge of mathematics and physics
- Basics of solar technology
- practical installation and maintenance of solar systems
At the end of the course, participants receive a state-recognised diploma. In addition, internships, taster days and workshops are held with solar companies. The young people are closely supervised and supported according to their individual strengths – regardless of gender or social status.
Since
Annual budget
Current project phase
Implementation partner
- Solar Mtaani
- Ministry of Labor and Social Protection
- Kabete Rehabilitation School
- Kirigiti Girls Rehabilitation School
- Dagoretti Girls Rehabilitation School
Targets 2024-2026
- Improved access to quality and inclusive education – regardless of gender and social status.
- Reducing energy poverty by empowering socially disadvantaged young people.
- Expansion of solar energy in suburban and rural regions.
The longer-term goal of the project is to fully integrate the training programme into the state care programme in youth homes.
Effect
Solar Learning Youth Centres change perspectives: The young people learn a future-oriented profession, acquire technical and personal skills – and often find a stable perspective for the first time.
With their knowledge, they bring solar energy to villages, schools and small businesses. They solve specific local problems and contribute to the economic development of their regions. The project creates real equality of opportunity – through education, personal responsibility and access to renewable energy.
Would you like to find out more about this project?
305 young people
