The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) implemented the project “Promotion of TVET for Vulnerable Youths in Bo, Sierra Leone” to address high youth unemployment and limited access to quality vocational training in Bo City. The initiative aimed to expand market-oriented technical and vocational education and training (TVET) opportunities for vulnerable young people, particularly girls, by developing the first formal TVET centre in Sierra Leone offering hands-on, accredited training aligned with local labour market needs.
This feasibility study provided a comprehensive assessment of the proposed TVET centre by analysing key prerequisites, opportunities, and risks, and offering recommendations to optimise the project design. The study evaluated the plausibility of achieving intended outcomes within the local context and assessed the project concept using OECD DAC evaluation criteria.
A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining qualitative research, including key informant interviews and focus group discussions with educators, youth, private and public sector stakeholders, and development partners, with on-site observations of infrastructure, equipment, and training environments. Quantitative data were collected through face-to-face surveys with over 200 out-of-school youth, young women, and potential TVET beneficiaries using CAPI software.