In the workshops of Kombolcha Polytechnic College in Ethiopia, amidst the hum of machinery and the scent of oil, a young student, Ahmed Bekele, is adjusting an automotive engine component. Just two years ago, Ahmed had little idea of what his future might hold. Today, he stands at the cusp of a promising career in automotive technology, thanks to the transformation of the facilities at the college by the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP).
Before the project, the college’s curriculum and facilities lagged behind industry standards. However, through strategic collaboration with industry experts and educational reformists, the college has become a breeding ground for skilled professionals, particularly in the automotive sector.
Under EASTRIP, the curriculum now reflects the latest advancements in automotive technology, as a result of integrating modern methodologies, advanced tools, and practical learning experiences, ensuring students like Ahmed are well-prepared for the needs of the labour market. “The new curriculum is more aligned with current industry trends. It’s engaging and hands-on, which really helps us understand how our education connects to our future careers,” Ahmed reflects.
With funding from the World Bank and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia through EASTRIP, the polytechnic has invested in state-of-the-art facilities. Workshops have been upgraded with modern machinery and diagnostic tools, empowering students to engage with the same technology they will encounter in the job market.
Mr. Solomon Abebe, a lecturer at the college, emphasizes, “Our facilities now rival those of some of the largest automotive centres in the region. This gives our students an advantage.”
Students at Kombolcha Polytechnic College during a practical skills training at the college
EASTRIP’s impact extends beyond the confines of Kombolcha Polytechnic College through industry collaboration. Local automotive companies and international industry leaders were instrumental in shaping the new curriculum, ensuring it met employer demands. “Having input from industry leaders helped us tailor our courses to the specific skills employers are looking for,” notes Habib Seid, another faculty member involved in the process.
These partnerships have not only ensured relevant education but have also facilitated internship opportunities for students, bridging the gap between theory and practice. “The internship gave me a real taste of what the job involves and equipped me with the confidence to step into the workforce,” Ahmed enthusiastically shares.
Students at Kombolcha Polytechnic at the Automative Workshop
The automotive sector, like many others in Ethiopia and across East Africa, suffers from a notable skills gap. EASTRIP addresses this issue head-on by producing graduates who are both knowledgeable and practical, ready to meet industry needs from day one. Statistics speak for themselves: a remarkable 76% of the program’s graduates secure employment within just six months of completing their studies.
The journey of Ahmed Bekele and his peers illustrates the transformative power of targeted educational reform and industry partnerships, reflecting a new beginning where skilled professionals are at the forefront of shaping East Africa’s economic destiny.
By Assen Bushira, M&E Specialist at Kombolcha Polytechnic College
