Vocational training for boys
The participants, their trainer and their finished work
In April 2006, the SWC organised a carpentry training workshop for 10 boys (school drop-outs and/or brothers of the sponsored girls). A local master carpenter did the training and now allows the boys to work alongside him in his workshop when they have free time. As they cannot afford to buy their own tools, this system enables them to continue to develop their skills.

Although the sponsorship scheme was initially open to boys and girls, it soon became clear that the pressure on boys to contribute financially to poor families is too great and as a result the drop out rate for boys is much higher than for girls. Boys can earn more money and at a younger age than girls, by working as farm labourers and share-croppers for local landlords.

This training gives the boys a basic skill which will help them earn a better living in future.