The challenge
Rwanda is experiencing a construction boom. In recent years, the many new construction sites have led to a significantly higher demand for qualified skilled workers in the construction sector. From masons and window fitters to building technicians and construction managers, the Rwandan construction sector lacks thousands of well-trained workers. In addition to the sheer number of construction projects, there is a lack of practical and paid training opportunities in the trades. The resulting labor shortages are reflected on Rwanda's construction sites primarily through unpunctual completions, poor quality and unused capacities. MASS, which has already implemented several construction projects in Rwanda, has repeatedly faced these problems on their own construction sites.
Project approach
MASS partnered with GIZ to improve skills and provide local workers employment opportunities through certified vocational training. With the assistance of Integrated Polytechnic Regional College (IPRC) Musanze, MASS.Build implemented an approved and certified training program on the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund construction project. With a budget of 400,000 euros, the following measures, among others, were implemented between November 2020 and May 2022.
- Improvement and state certification of training programs for various skilled trades
- Preparation of workshops for practical training units
- Further training of 23 instructors by German Master Craftsmen
- Implementation of a nine-month training program
- Follow up of trainees and assist with job placement post project
For us, architecture always means supporting communities and creating new opportunities for the future. That's why it's great that, together with GIZ, we have been able to give many people the opportunity to be trained at the new Ellen DeGeneres Campus, while at the same time meeting our own needs for skilled workers.
Results
Together, the project partners trained 592 apprentices, including 204 women, in construction trades such as masonry, carpentry, plumbing, and welding, as well as occupational health and safety standards. The skills learned, and areas of training disciplines were those on the project (in Masonry, Steel-fixing, Carpentry, MEFP services, HSE, Welding, Finishing works). 80 % of the training was practical – on-the-job training – while 20% of the training was theoretical. IPRC Musanze issued state-accredited certificates to all young tradesmen and worked with MASS and German master craftsmen to develop its curricula. Currently, 120 trainees have continued working with MASS on a reforestation project in Kinigi, Musanze. All the others have a good chance of finding employment in the Rwandan construction industry, where there is a great demand for qualified construction workers. MASS will make every effort to follow up on the careers of all trainees to ensure that graduates find good employment in the labor market.
develoPPP Classic
develoPPP Classic is aimed at medium-sized and large companies that want to invest sustainably in a developing or emerging country and expand their operational activities locally. Suitable projects receive technical and financial support of up to two million euros in public funding.
Project partners
