By Jemal Hansen
General Wingate Polytechnic College (GWPTC) in Ethiopia hosted the monthly meeting of the Eastern Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP) on June 15, 2023. The meeting was organized by the National Project Coordination Unit (NPCU) of the Ministry of Labour and Skills (MoLS), responsible for coordinating regional flagship technical institutions (RFTIs) in Ethiopia.
The primary objective of the meeting was to assess the progress and status of EASTRIP implementation across the various RFTIs. Representatives from each institution gathered at GWPTC to share updates, discuss challenges, and identify areas for improvement in their respective projects.
The meeting also served as a platform for the participating RFTIs to engage in discussions regarding the preparation of the Annual Work Plan (AWP) for the upcoming fiscal year 2023/24. The representatives deliberated on strategies, goals, and priorities that will shape the implementation of EASTRIP initiatives in the following year. This comprehensive planning process was crucial for ensuring the efficient utilization of resources and achieving the desired outcomes.
In addition to assessing progress and planning for the future, the representatives had the opportunity to visit various facilities on the GWPTC campus. They inspected the construction status of ongoing projects, ensuring that infrastructure development was on track. The maintenance of existing buildings and workshops was also reviewed to guarantee a conducive learning environment for students.
Representatives of Regional Flagship Technical Institutes in Ethiopia Discuss Implementation and Future Plans at GWPTC Campus
The highlight of the meeting was the visit was the newly acquired Electrical Laboratory Workstation equipped with modern equipment and tools, which demonstrated the college’s commitment to practical skills development and preparing students for the demands of the job market.
At the conclusion of the meeting, all RFTI representatives reached a consensus on the dates for the creation of the Annual Work Plan (AWP) for the fiscal year 2023/24. The planning sessions were scheduled to take place from July 5th to July 8th, 2023. This dedicated time would allow the institutions to collaborate closely and finalize the AWP, ensuring a coordinated and unified approach to EASTRIP implementation in the coming year.
The Writer is a Project Coordinator for EASTRIP at General Winigate Polytechnic College