Solar Perspectives
Tackling the causes of flight: career prospects instead of risky migration
My way out of poverty
Kenya
Initial situation and challenges
Despite economic growth, many young people in Senegal have no job prospects. Food crises, climate change, population growth and youth unemployment are driving many people to migrate. Returnees face the difficult task of reintegrating into their communities of origin – often without support. At the same time, there is a lack of skilled workers in the solar sector, even though the country offers ideal conditions for renewable energy.
Our approach
In Senegal, a practice-oriented training programme in the field of solar technology is being set up together with the University of Dakar and the organisation LERNA. It is aimed at young people and returned migrants with little schooling and facilitates access to training by providing lessons in the local language and paying for accommodation and transportation.
Two courses are held each year, each with 20 participants. The participants learn:
- technical and theoretical knowledge of solar technology
- Soft skills and psychosocial basics for starting a career
- practice-oriented knowledge through an accompanying internship
Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate that is officially recognised in West Africa. In addition to the training, they are supported in finding a job or setting up their own small business.
An accompanying research project at the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland is helping to evaluate the programme and develop it further on an ongoing basis.
Project start with secured partial financing
Annual budget
Current project phase
Targets 2025-2028
- Creating sustainable prospects locally: recognised solar training for returned and potential migrants to support reintegration
- Tackling the causes of flight: economic stability and local opportunities by providing access to the local solar market or promoting solar start-ups
- Ensure effectiveness: Accompanying research and ongoing evaluation for continous optimisation of the project.
Effect
For many young people in Senegal, this is their first real chance of vocational training and a self-determined life. The participants not only gain technical knowledge, but also self-confidence and new perspectives.
They strengthen their own economic situation and contribute to the energy transition in Senegal. Many support their families, set up small businesses or become role models in their communities. Solar Perspectives creates prospects – for people, rural areas and climate protection.
Would you like to find out more about this project?
100 young people
