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At Swisscontact, we believe in the power of strategic partnerships to drive meaningful change. Our vision of fostering sustainable, inclusive growth by empowering individuals and communities through innovative solutions is only possible through collaboration with like-minded partners. Together, we tackle complex global challenges—from economic development to social inclusion—ensuring long-term impact and resilience, especially in today’s challenging landscape.
One of our key partners in realizing this vision is the Hilti Foundation. Sharing our commitment to impactful, sustainable development, the Hilti Foundation has been an invaluable collaborator in driving skills development within Kenya’s construction sector. This partnership comes to life through PropelA—a dual apprenticeship program funded by Hilti Foundation that equips young people with industry-relevant skills in electrical and plumbing trades. By aligning education with industry needs, PropelA exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in creating meaningful, long-lasting impact.
Recently, Swisscontact hosted members of the Hilti Group and Hilti Foundation, including Mr. Felix Hess, Hilti Foundation Board Member; Dirk S. Dijkstra, Director of Business Development META Partners – Hilti Group; and Cinar Burcu, Head of HR META at Hilti Group. The visit showcased PropelA’s impact on addressing the skilled labor shortage in Kenya's construction industry.
During their exposure visits, they witnessed firsthand the transformative effect of PropelA on apprentices and the strides made in bridging the skills gap. They visited partner companies, Ultra Power Systems Limited and Allied Plumbers Ltd, where apprentices spend three weeks each month gaining hands-on experience. They met apprentices from the pioneer cohorts who secured employment upon completing the two-year program, highlighting PropelA's role in addressing youth unemployment in Kenya while supplying skilled labor to the construction sector.
Here they also met cohort 2 and 3 apprentices who are still in training. Their mentors shared stories of remarkable growth, highlighting apprentices’ growth not only in technical skills but also in soft skills speaking to their confidence. This was shown through apprentices taking charge of the visit demonstrating the projects they are working on.
John Githu, a Cohort 2 Apprentice at Ultra Power Systems Limited, noted that what stood out for him was the mentors' dedication to not only passing on skills but also keeping them updated with industry trends. He, appreciated having access to the latest tools and learning new techniques at the company, appreciating that the industry trends keep changing, which ensured they remain competent and relevant in the industry. Mr. Felix affirmed this sentiment, noting the impressive quality of materials, tools, and techniques used by the apprentices, highlighting the extensive knowledge they have gained and the continuous learning they experience at the programme.
The delegation also visited Don Bosco Boys Town, PropelA’s vocational training partner, where apprentices receive one week of theoretical and practical training each month. At the state-of-the-art electrical and plumbing workshops, the guests witnessed the tools apprentices use in the wokshops and also had conversations with apprentices who shared their aspirations and experiences.
Peter Theuri Ndegwa, a Cohort 3 apprentice at Erubi Engineering Services, highlighted the program's unique value while Joan Ketrick, another apprentice, spoke of her personal transformation.
The visit highlighted PropelA's transformative impact on apprentices and underscored the crucial role of private sector leadership in bridging the gap between education and industry. By aligning skills training with market needs, we are taking significant strides toward addressing youth unemployment in Kenya.
Swisscontact, in partnership with the Hilti Foundation, is committed to empowering the next generation of skilled professionals, driving economic growth, and building resilient communities. This shared dedication to positive change aligns perfectly with our mission, enabling us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young Kenyans.