UNESCO and partners break ground on new agricultural TVET training center at the University of Juba

Implemented by UNESCO in partnership with the Government of South Sudan and University of Juba, and funded by the African Development Bank, the STVET-VCD project aims to strengthen South Sudan's TVET system by improving access to quality, middle-level technical skills, particularly in the agriculture value chain. The new training center will enhance practical learning opportunities for students and strengthen the University of Juba's capacity to deliver training relevant to the agriculture sector and aligned with the needs of the labor market.

Agriculture is at the heart of livelihoods and food security in South Sudan, with around 80 per cent of the population dependent on it for income and sustenance. The sector has huge potential to drive sustainable development, but gaps in skills and infrastructure limit productivity. Strengthening the agriculture value chain is essential to creating jobs and supporting economic recovery, while linking TVET to the sector helps to ensure young people develop skills that can be applied directly in agriculture and related industries.

The event concluded with breaking the ground on-site, showcasing the partners' commitment to expanding skills development for young people and supporting inclusive, sustainable development for South Sudan.