Ethiopia. TVET partnership is boosting job in the construction sector

A technical and vocational education and training (TVET) partnership is training young people in Ethiopia in construction – and creating opportunities in both countries.

Infrastructure meets training – Ethiopia’s construction sector is in flux

Ethiopia’s construction sector is booming. From roads and bridges to housing developments, major projects are prominent throughout the country. However, this rapid growth is lacking a crucial resource – well-trained specialists. There is an acute shortage in the area of mains-connected water supply and wastewater disposal, in particular. At the same time, young people often have difficulty entering the job market through training. 

Practical training – a local approach with an international focus

This is where the TVET partnership between BAUVERBÄNDEN NRW and six Ethiopian construction associations and General Wingate Polytechnic College in Addis Ababa comes in. The objective is to establish a practical TVET programme in the area of mains-connected water supply and wastewater disposal. The partnership works closely with the private sector to create modern curricula and training courses to meet local market needs – as well as prospects for skilled workers in Germany.

Training that achieves results – for 60 new skilled workers

The main focus is the implementation of a new dual training programme that trains young people to become sought-after specialists in the wastewater sector. By 2026, 60 young people are set to complete their training. In addition, vocational teachers and trainers receive targeted training so that they can offer practice-based learning. 

Preparing for migration – with German courses and advice 

Another component involves preparing skilled workers interested in migrating for training or employment in Germany. In cooperation with local institutions, German-language courses are offered up to B1 level and accompanying advisory services are being developed. The first group to complete the training are already working in the civil engineering sector in Germany – an example of successful, legal and fair migration. 

Cofinancing – new paths for Ethiopia

In the long term, the project’s central objective is to develop a public-private cofinancing model for TVET.

There are three main reform approaches:

• Training contracts between trainees and companies
•  A training allowance that increases incrementally
•  An industry-wide training levy

These instruments are set to be discussed and implemented together with policy-makers and may serve as a blueprint for the entire construction sector.

Diese Instrumente sollen gemeinsam mit politischen Entscheidungsträgern diskutiert und umgesetzt werden und können als Blaupause für den gesamten Bausektor dienen.

The ‘magic square’: key factors for successful economic migration

The partnership shows how TVET achieves real results: through practice-based training, fair and well-prepared migration, close links with the labour market and clear benefits for both sides. It thus addresses key factors for successful economic migration – in accordance with the ‘magic square’ model, which combines training, legal migration, labour-market integration and win-win outcomes. This creates sustainable employment opportunities and strengthens cooperation between Ethiopia and Germany.