(JUBA) – A new agreement will expand vocational training and skills development across South Sudan, targeting youth, returnees, internally displaced persons and host communities with practical education aimed at boosting employment.
The International Organization for Migration and the Ministry of Labour signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 18 June to strengthen cooperation on vocational training, skills development and labour related initiatives nationwide. The agreement sets out a framework to increase access to market relevant vocational skills training and to improve employment and livelihood opportunities.
IOM Chief of Mission in South Sudan, Vijaya Souri, said the partnership marks an important step toward strengthening national structures and advancing sustainable development. “This Memorandum of Understanding reflects our shared commitment to empowering communities through skills development and vocational training. By working together, we can help equip individuals with the practical skills needed to access employment opportunities, strengthen self-reliance and contribute meaningfully to South Sudan’s development,” Souri said.
The MoU identifies several priority areas for cooperation. These include the rehabilitation and operation of vocational training centres, labour market assessments, curriculum development and review, capacity strengthening for instructors and institutions, information sharing, joint advocacy and resource mobilisation.
The partnership will also support greater coordination between national and state level stakeholders involved in vocational training, skills development and labour market programming. Through closer collaboration, the Ministry and IOM aim to build a more responsive, inclusive and sustainable vocational training system that matches labour market needs and national development priorities.
Minister of Labour Anthony Lino Makana reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening vocational education and skills development as key drivers of economic growth, employment creation and social stability.
Under the agreement, both parties will work together on labour market assessments, research, policy consultations and technical capacity building initiatives. The MoU also encourages joint efforts to raise awareness of the importance of vocational training and to mobilise resources to support skills development programmes across South Sudan.
IOM praised the leadership of the Ministry of Labour and the Directorate of Vocational Training and Skills Development for their commitment to stronger institutional coordination and national ownership of vocational training initiatives.
The signing marks a significant milestone in efforts to widen access to skills development opportunities, promote entrepreneurship and support the socio-economic reintegration and resilience of communities affected by displacement, conflict and limited livelihood options.
IOM said it remains committed to working closely with the Government of South Sudan, development partners and local communities to advance inclusive, market oriented and sustainable skills development initiatives that contribute to durable solutions and recovery.