| Project
Description
A new educational center in Burao will provide a focus
to assist the district to promote initiatives that will help youth aged
15 to 25 become life long learners, productive workers and self-sufficient
citizens.
Project Purpose
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To offer a place where
relevant education is accessible to youth, regardless of income
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To prevent northern Somali
youth from entering the militia as an escape from poverty by offering an
educational alternative.
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To “demobilize” young
militia men who have been deprived of an education because of civil war
and economic collapse
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To encourage positive
social action from Somali youth in Burao through activities and educational
experiences
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To introduce the use
of modern technologies (e.g. radio, computers) as tools for youth to continue
their education
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To bring about awareness
of “peaceful” lifestyles and possibilities through youth exchanges between
Somali youth and Canadian youth, offering youth internship opportunities,
and engaging Canadian adult “mentorship”
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To offer awareness programs
to Somali teachers, parents, and community leaders that will begin a process
of advocacy against child labor.
VTC Programs of Study
A. Business
Administration
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Management
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Accounting
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computer application & information
B.
Technical Education
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Carpentry & Joinery
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Masonry
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Electrician (construction and maintenance)
C.
General Non-formal Education
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Family Life Education
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Language Training
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Literacy and Numeracy
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Math
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Project
Activities
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Build and furnish a four-classroom building that will serve
as an educational and vocational training center (VTC) for youth.
The building will be equipped with computers and related communication
technology, sports equipment, etc.
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A qualified Canadian teacher will provide educational programs,
and vocational training based on individual needs and/or curriculum standards
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A community facilitator/teacher/counselor will provide drop-in
community prevention workshops, guidance counseling, family forums, career
workshops, networking with other support agencies, advocacy, homework,
clubs, tutoring and recreational activities (e.g., sports, games outdoor/indoor)
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A Canadian community from within (e.g. Ottawa, Edmonton)
will be recruited to “twin” with Burao. Students in a junior high
school will correspond with students in Burao. Relationships will
be encouraged between Canadian and Somali students. Canadian adult
mentors will also correspond and offer support to individual Somali youth.
Exchanges will be encouraged
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Local teacher assistants with an interest in pursuing professional
educational training (preferably older youth) will be provided experience
under the mentorship of the teachers.
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