WAVS’ 4-Part Model for Running Sustainable Christian Vocational Schools in Africa
Recently, a report released jointly by the World Bank, the International Labor Organization, and UNESCO concluded that there will be “exponential” growth in skills training programs in low and middle-income countries over the next two decades. But the report also highlights all the ways that vocational training programs have failed and the need for reform in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
With nearly two decades experience operating Christian vocational schools in Guinea-Bissau, one of the world’s smallest and poorest countries, WAVS has developed a four-part model that has resulted in training more than 2,000 youth, with an estimated 3 out of 4 graduates either finding employment, starting their own business, or continuing their education.
While we are still learning as we go, here are the four key components of our model that have worked so far.
1. A Focus on Practical, Hands-On Training for Relevant Skills
We’re focused on implementing training programs that are designed specifically to translate into employment opportunities for its graduates. Students spend the majority of their training time in the workshop, learning through hands-on experience. The programs also provide the students with classroom theory instruction to supplement the hands-on training.
We select training programs that are relevant to the local economy, and we design the content of the programs around the skills that will be used in local industry. For example, most welding in Guinea-Bissau is done using stick welding, so the vast majority of our training is done using stick welding.
This focus is vital, as reports have shown that many technical and vocational training programs are falling short of expectations.
2. Pre-Training and Post-Training Services
In Guinea-Bissau, workers often have to bring their own tools and equipment to the job — regardless of whether they are self-employed or working for someone else. Without tools, WAVS graduates are unable to put their new skills into practice.
So that’s why we launched the New Entrepreneurs Program, which provides graduates with starter tool kits and learning materials at subsidized prices. The logic behind this program is simple: thanks to the generosity of donors, graduates are able to afford durable, high-quality tools. Because the graduates are still paying for part of the cost of the tools, they have a strong incentive to take care of them.
This is one example of pre- and post-training services we provide to students. The reality is that simply training a student in a new job skill isn’t enough to break down the barriers to employment. That’s why we are also developing ways to invest in students’ soft skills, business administration skills, as well as post-training services such as job placement programs and microcredit loans.
3. Diverse Revenue Streams, Including Student Projects
WAVS charges tuition to all students, though the fees are heavily subsidized by donors. Students pay an affordable tuition fee of at about $40 USD for a four-month course. The tuition fees help ensure that students are truly invested in their training. They also provide the schools with a source of consistent revenue to help it become more financially sustainable.
In addition, the training programs generate revenue through welding projects for outside clients, which also gives welding students real-world training opportunities.
Read more about how vocational schools in Africa can become financially self-sustaining.
4. Recruiting Staff from Local Churches
We take a holistic ministry approach by investing in both the skills development and spiritual growth of students. To carry out this vision, we’ve built strong relationships with local churches and recruit most of its local employees through the local church community.
Teachers from these local churches then have the opportunity to build authentic relationships with their students and share the Gospel message during classroom devotionals. As a result, more than 85% of WAVS graduates report that they have a closer relationship with God thanks to their experience at WAVS.
Mario, one of our English teachers, with a copy of a Creole Bible available to students so they can read God’s Word in their own language.
Why this model matters
As global demand for vocational training grows, there’s a critical need for programs that are faith-driven, locally grounded, and financially sustainable. WAVS’ experience in Guinea-Bissau offers a glimpse into what’s possible when we focus on opportunity over charity, invest in long-term solutions, and share the hope of Jesus in all we do. By combining hands-on training, soft skills development, and a strong focus on local economic relevance, WAVS’ model supports not only individual success but also broader community resilience and growth.
