By Edward Nyakeh Vamboi

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with the Freetown Polytechnic, have celebrated the graduation of 25 returnees who successfully completed an intensive automotive skills training program. The ceremony, held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the Government Technical Institute Campus, Ferry Junction, marks a significant step in supporting sustainable livelihoods and reintegration opportunities for returnees in Sierra Leone.

The program, funded by the European Union (EU), focused on practical automotive maintenance, including engine repairs, tire and battery replacement and diagnostic checks. It forms part of a wider initiative to equip young people and returnees with hands-on technical skills to foster economic stability and discourage irregular migration.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Pauline Macharia, IOM Officer-in-Charge in Sierra Leone, underscored the importance of the initiative. “This training program provides industry-relevant skills that are critical in today’s evolving job market. By integrating modules on sustainable industrial practices, entrepreneurship and advanced technological applications, we are helping participants build a future that benefits their communities and the nation,” she said.

Dr. Pauline Macharia emphasized IOM and UNIDO’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with the Government of Sierra Leone, non-Governmental institutions and other United Nations agencies to ensure migrants are not left behind in national development efforts. She added that such programs are designed to reduce the risks of irregular migration by creating viable opportunities for returnees to contribute meaningfully to their families and society.

Dr. Samba Moriba, Principal of Freetown Polytechnic, hailed the collaboration as a milestone in vocational education. “Freetown Polytechnic has long been a beacon of technical training since its establishment in 1964. This partnership with IOM and UNIDO reinforces our mission of combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills to produce graduates who are ready to innovate and lead,” he noted.

He also stressed that international partnerships play a vital role in shaping the future of technical education in Sierra Leone, ensuring students are not only prepared for today’s workforce but are capable of adapting to tomorrow’s industrial challenges.

Representing the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Assistant Director, Cyrus Chrispin Justice reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to youth empowerment. “Our role as a Ministry is to design policies that make young people valuable assets to their communities and the nation. Initiatives like this are critical in achieving that goal,” he stated.

The graduation of these 25 returnees is more than a ceremony; it symbolizes resilience, hope and a shared commitment to sustainable development. With the support of IOM, UNIDO and the European Union, the graduates are now equipped with valuable skills to build their livelihoods, reduce unemployment and contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic growth. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/iom-and-unido-empower-25-returnees-with-automotive-skills-training/