The Wau Vocational Training Center (WVTC) is grappling with a shortage of essential training materials and tools, the principal says.
Established with the aim of equipping the nation’s youth with vital skills, the center has faced numerous challenges, including disruptions due to the 2016 civil war and ongoing economic difficulties.
During the civil war, the center had to suspend operations due to extensive damage and looting of its assets. Although the center reopened, it is struggling in the face of the current economic malaise.
The center was established to offer training in various fields such as welding, carpentry, auto-mechanics, electrical engineering, building, driving, and computer courses.
In an exclusive interview with Radio Tamazuj, WVTC principal Rev. Martin Maker Auhiem revealed that despite resuming operations, only two sections, the auto mechanic and the driving school, are operational because they are funded by fees and individual contributions.
“Only about 50 students are currently undergoing a six-month training at the center. Because we do not have a budget, we charge them a little money to enable us to buy the materials needed for their courses. The other sections will remain closed until the national government approves our budget or until we receive funds from NGOs.”
Rev. Maker urged the government to revamp the institution.
“Since 2016, the center has lacked the necessary materials and assets for training due to extensive looting. We are requesting the government to provide the materials and renovate the classes, including hostels for students from other states. Additionally, the issue of security is paramount and we lack both fences and guards to protect the assets,” he said. “This school belongs to the government and they should not stand idly while we suffer. Qualified trainers are ready to equip this nation with engineering and technical skills. Efforts should be doubled to secure training materials through NGOs which are mandated to assist in such projects.”
For his part, Anwar Obang Dut, the head of the auto-mechanic and driving units said they train students for three months at the moment.
“We provide them with the necessary driving and vehicle repair skills. The traffic police also mentor them on traffic rules. After training, we issue certificates and driving licenses to enhance their employability,” he explained. “Our major challenge is lack of cooperation from the public and vehicle owners. People are not bringing their vehicles for repair possibly due to mistrust.”
“Furthermore, the lack of tools due to insufficient funds is hindering our operations,” Obang added.
Luka Peter Amabile, an auto-mechanic student, appreciated the center from which he said he vital acquired skills.
“I thank WVTC for equipping me with the skills to solve vehicle-related problems. I aspire to work for a leading company and oversee their driving and mechanics units,” he said.
The Wau Vocational Training Center was established by former Sudanese President Jafar Mohammed Nimeiri in 1969 and was known as Mahad Mayo at the time.
After South Sudan gained independence in 2011, the center was renamed the Wau Vocational Training Center.