Burhani Engineers Partners with Swisscontact to Address Skills Gap in Kenya's Engineering Sector

In a move to address the skills gap in Kenya's engineering sector, Burhani Engineers Ltd. has partnered with Swisscontact's PropelA apprenticeship program. This collaboration aims to provide young Kenyans with the skills needed to succeed in the plumbing and electrical engineering fields, while simultaneously tackling youth unemployment in the country.

The PropelA program, implemented in partnership with Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute in Nairobi, offers a dual apprenticeship model that combines classroom-based theoretical knowledge with hands-on work experience. This approach is designed to produce work-ready graduates who can meet the demands of Kenya's growing engineering industry.

Burhani Engineers, recognized as one of Kenya's leading engineering companies, is playing a crucial role in this initiative by offering students practical experience in a professional setting. One such student, Obed Bosire, is currently completing the practical component of his apprenticeship at Burhani Engineers, where he is gaining valuable work experience under the guidance of experienced engineers and technicians.

This partnership is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it addresses the critical shortage of skilled labor in Kenya's plumbing and electrical sectors, which has been a major hindrance to economic growth. Secondly, it provides a pathway for young Kenyans to enter the workforce with the skills and experience needed to secure long-term employment. Finally, it demonstrates how private sector companies can collaborate with educational institutions to create meaningful solutions to unemployment and skills shortages.

The program also offers financial support to apprentices in the form of a stipend from Burhani Engineers, providing them with the means to support themselves during their training. This financial assistance, combined with the skills and experience gained, represents a significant opportunity for young Kenyans to achieve financial independence and career success.

As Kenya continues to develop its infrastructure and engineering capabilities, initiatives like the Burhani Engineers-Swisscontact partnership will be crucial in building a skilled workforce capable of meeting the country's future needs. This collaboration serves as a model for how industry and education can work together to address economic challenges and create opportunities for youth, potentially paving the way for similar initiatives across other sectors in Kenya and beyond.