How vocational training graduates are creating job opportunities in Iraq

“Before I came to this course, I was a worker. After I graduated, I became an employer, and I feel proud of what I have accomplished.” – Yasser, Graduate, Anbar Vocational Training Centre 

Unemployment is a major concern in Iraq due to the country’s complex economic, social, security, and political situation. Youth and women face disproportionately high levels of unemployment. To address this problem, there is an increasing focus on using technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to equip youth and adults with the necessary skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. 

To support the Government of Iraq’s efforts to reform the TVET sector,  WUSC is working with the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, local Governorates, and selected vocational training centres to transform vocational training and increase access to economic opportunities for youth and women in four sectors: electrical installation, food preparation, health administration, and pipe fitting. 

From Student to Employer: Yasser’s Story

Yasser graduated from the electrical installation course at the Anbar Vocational Training Centre. The course lasted six months and focused on developing technical skills in electrical installation. “The course helped me to rely on myself and to believe in my abilities. It also helped me to learn and gain experience and skills that will help me in my work,” explains Yasser. Before graduating, he was able to further develop the skills he learned through the course during an internship.

Upon graduation, trainees are offered a certificate. This was important for Yasser to help him apply for jobs in companies operating in the same sector. 

Today, Yasser is a proud business owner and has taken on fellow students from the electrical installation course as employees as well as interns. He also had the opportunity to complete an entrepreneurship course, which helped him cultivate the skills he needed to operate his growing business. 

Yasser’s story is just one example of how TVET can help change people’s lives by providing them with skills to start businesses and create jobs, which help to support the country’s development. You can learn more about Yasser’s experience in this video.

The BRIDGE Initiative is delivered in partnership with Canadian Leaders in International Consulting and funded by Global Affairs Canada.