SkillsHub class in Agriculture in the garden on Pestalozzi campus Zambia

Modern skills to escape poverty

Young adults unlock their potential and change their lives

SkillsHub - Marginalised young people enter the workforce

In many countries in the global south, young people face significant barriers to education and employment, often finding themselves without the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy. The SkillsHub was created to bridge this gap. By focusing on vocational training, it can help young people tap into these opportunities, changing their lives and helping the economy to grow. It offers training for in-demand skills like digital or agricultural sciences that equips teenagers with the tools and mindset to enter the workforce, build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to their communities. 

Opening up new horizons

The teenagers who join SkillsHub often come from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, including informal settlements and refugee camps. Many have been out of education for an extended period, leaving them with limited opportunities for their future. Despite these challenges, they demonstrate incredible resilience and ambition. Our programme is designed to help them unlock their potential and create brighter futures.

Female Alumni talking behind flowers

How we make a difference

The young people who join the SkillsHub are eager to learn and grow. At SkillsHub, we recognise that the barriers to education go beyond academics, and we address the practical challenges preventing teenagers from attending training. Providing meals, childcare, and a safe environment ensures that students can fully participate in the programme. Our centres offer an inclusive space where young people can focus on learning and personal growth, free from external pressures.

What we stand for
A group of children on Pestalozzi Campus Zambia

What the young adults receive

Students receive hands-on training in digital technologies, agricultural sciences and other in-demand jobs in growing sectors. Whether it’s coding, digital design, or sustainable farming practices, our curriculum is aligned with the demands of the modern economy.

In addition to technical skills, Skills Hub emphasises personal development. We help students build the confidence, self-reliance, and entrepreneurial spirit needed to succeed in any field. By fostering these qualities, we empower them to break the cycle of poverty and create lasting change in their communities.

More on our approach
Pestalozzi children in the forest in Nepal

Who can participate

We focus on reaching teenagers 15-23 years old who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), particularly those from marginalised communities. Our programme prioritises girls and refugees, ensuring that those most in need gain access to the skills training that can change their lives.

More on our selection process

Zambia’s growing economy demands skilled labour, but supply is lacking. Our graduates, equipped with vital skills, fill this gap or start businesses, creating success that lifts entire communities out of poverty.

Brian Sitamulaho, Board Chair Zambia

Where we offer SkillsHub

Currently we pioneer our approach on our campus in Lusaka, Zambia. This country has significant potential for economic growth, particularly in agriculture and emerging digital sectors.

Barriers to education and employment

Yet unemployment is high, especially among the under-25s, who make up 60% of the population. Access to quality and secondary education that families can afford is limited, particularly in rural areas, and particularly for girls and those who live at the margins of society.

Skills mismatch

At the same time the Zambian economy is evolving, with growing sectors like digital technology and agriculture requiring skilled workers. However, professional training and technical education are underdeveloped in Zambia.

By focusing on vocational training, SkillsHub can help young people tap into these opportunities, changing their lives and helping the economy to grow.

Children learning with books on their tables at Pestalozzi Zambia

Your support Improves livelihoods

Thanks to you young adults gain job training to break poverty and boost local economies.

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