DARFUR VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM
Where: El Geneina, West Darfur, Sudan
Local Partner: St. Vincent de Paul Society
Donor: The Pindoff Project
The situation in Darfur (western Sudan) has been described by the United Nations as one of the largest humanitarian crises currently facing the world. Raids on villages have resulted in widespread human rights abuses. Approximately two million people have had to leave their homes and been forced to live in IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps inside Sudan, or have crossed the border into Chad. Since September 2005 the situation has deteriorated significantly and youth, children and women, the most vulnerable population, continue to live in horrifying conditions. Displacement continues across Darfur due to attacks by various militia groups despite efforts of the international community to broker peace.
Youth living within IDP camps are especially vulnerable to sexual assault, military recruitment and lack education or job opportunities. There are typically very few programs directed to children and youth within IDP camps.
Working through the St. Vincent de Paul Society, War Child Canada is supporting a vocational training program that provides psychosocial and economic support to internally displaced youth. Participants are trained in such things as masonry and food conservation, skills that will strengthen their livelihood opportunities both in the IDP camps and in their home villages once they return. The vocational training project supports youth living in harsh and violent conditions and attempts to, build confidence and strengthen relationships within their communities. Courses on relevant issues such as sexual gender based violence and HIV/AIDS awareness are also provided to project beneficiaries.
Quick background facts:
- UNICEF estimates that 1.4 million children have been directly affected by the conflict in Darfur.
- According to Human Rights Watch, approximately 2 million people have been displaced, out of a total population of 6 million in the Darfur region.
- While estimates on the number of deaths in the Darfur conflict vary widely, some analysts say that the death toll may be as high as 300,000 people.
See more photographs from War Child Canada’s projects in Darfur, Sudan.
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