Cameroon RenewED: Driving Sustainable Change through Education

MasterPeace is proud to be a partner in the Cameroon RenewED project. The demand for sustainable energy solutions has never been more urgent, and Cameroon is rising to the challenge with an innovative approach. The EU co-funded Cameroon RenewED project united three European organisations—Noorderpoort (Netherlands), APRO Formazione (Italy), and MasterPeace (Netherlands)—with three Cameroonian partners—Hope for a Better Future, FAP NGO, and SOPISDEW. The Capacity Building project aimed to reshape vocational education and training by embedding renewable energy expertise in solar, wind, and hydro energy into the national educational framework. Since its launch in January 2023, the project’s aim has been to bridge gaps between education, the labour market, and governance by training VET teachers and students, developing innovative renewable energy modules, and fostering entrepreneurial skills. Through hands-on “train-the-trainer” programs, (online) exchanges, and collaboration with local stakeholders, the project laid the groundwork for long-term impact

Empowering Gen Z: Skills for the Green Economy
At the heart of Cameroon RenewED is its focus on empowering the next generation. The project has trained 358 students at HOBEFI in practical skills for renewable energy system design, installation, and maintenance, complemented by entrepreneurial training. Under the guidance of 25 local mentors, students developed personalized business plans, positioning them as not just job seekers but job creators in Cameroon’s transition to a green economy.

Remarkably, 60% of participants are young women, breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated renewable energy sector. This focus on gender inclusivity not only empowers individuals but also challenges societal norms, paving the way for broader social change.

Bridging Education and the Labor Market
One of the project’s most significant achievements is its success in aligning VET with labour market demands. Partnerships with local businesses have provided students with real-world experience through internships and hands-on projects, ensuring their skills meet market needs. Additionally, the project developed and introduced renewable energy curricula, modernizing VET institutions and preparing students for emerging careers in the green economy. This integration has created a seamless pathway from education to employment, addressing Cameroon’s energy challenges while fostering sustainable development.

Overcoming Challenges
The project faced significant challenges, particularly regarding visa issues, which prevented most Cameroonian students and staff from participating in European exchanges. To adapt, an online exchange program was organized, where over 35 students from Groningen and Bamenda collaborated on renewable energy challenges in Cameroon. Their solutions were presented at the Great Minds Summits in Bamenda and Yaoundé.

For teachers and trainers, additional online “train-the-trainer” sessions were held, and an extra exchange to Cameroon was organized in June 2024. This exchange focused on entrepreneurial skills, bridging education and labour market gaps, and providing mentorship for educators. Simone Foglia of Apro Formazione, who led the social entrepreneurship training, reflected on the experience:

“The experience was great from both a human and a technical point of view. The entrepreneurship modules were warmly participated and the interaction was always high. Despite the technicalities of the project, the business sessions were absorbed with a more transversal approach, in order to foster socio-economic growth in possibly all areas and with an attention to social issues, and not only on financial aspects. Both students and trainers demonstrated a strong interest and willpower to experiment out of their comfort zones.”

External experts also joined exchanges in Cameroon, offering fresh perspectives and motivating both students and partners. These collaborations created lasting impact by deepening understanding of local contexts and inspiring innovation.

Celebrating Success: The Great Minds Summits
The success of Cameroon RenewED was highlighted in two Great Minds Summits, which brought together stakeholders, students, and partners to celebrate achievements and discuss the future.
The first summit, hosted by MINPSEESA in Bamenda, featured innovative student projects and discussions on their impact on regional development. The second and culminating summit was held in Yaoundé. Hosted by MINEFOP, it showcased 25 student-led renewable energy solutions, such as solar-powered irrigation systems and micro-hydro projects for rural electrification. High-level stakeholders, including government officials, private sector leaders, and UN agencies, engaged in discussions on policy alignment, funding, and the future of renewable energy in Cameroon.

Lasting Impact

The Great Minds Summit in Yaoundé marked the conclusion of this project. Cameroon RenewED’s achievements include training over 350 students, developing teaching modules, establishing strong(er) links with businesses and regional and national stakeholders, meanwhile empowering young women to participate in the program. With these foundations in place, Cameroon RenewED is set to deliver lasting benefits to Cameroonian communities through sustainable education and social entrepreneurship.

For Geert Nanne Bruining, the project coordinator for Noorderpoort, the project changed his view on the potential of Capacity Building projects: “The Cameroon RenewED project did not just built capacity in VET in Cameroon, but also in Europe, as the project has altered the way we look at our education, work and lives at home, in the EU. We have all grown as partners and participants, and I would highly suggest to implement this aspect more in future CB-projects!”

Disclaimer:
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s)only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Next Gen COOLTalk: Kyden and MasterPeace Inspire the Future of Learning

On November 22, 2024, Kyden and MasterPeace joined forces to host an engaging session of the monthly COOLTalks, showcasing the potential of the new generations (Z and Alpha) to drive meaningful change in education and sustainability. This collaboration celebrated months of hard work and innovative thinking, culminating in a presentation that highlighted actionable solutions for building a better future.

Kyden’s Young Professionals: Driving Innovation for Impact
Kyden’s Young Professionals took on a unique challenge: supporting MasterPeace in amplifying the reach and effectiveness of its Module of the Future. This pilot program aims to integrate sustainability and future-proof skills into the curriculum of vocational students, equipping them to address global challenges like climate change and inequality.

Kyden’s team explored the learning preferences and expectations of Generations Z and Alpha, offering key insights into how these younger generations approach education, technology, and career development. Their findings informed a detailed report, which not only helps MasterPeace refine the Module of the Future but also serves as a resource for organizations preparing to engage the next generation of learners and workers

The COOLTalk Presentation

The collaboration reached an exciting milestone during the November COOLTalk, a global webinar hosted by Kyden and MasterPeace. This session brought together participants from across the globe to discuss the future of education, the role of sustainability, and how to better equip young people to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Kyden’s Young Professionals presented their findings with passion and clarity, sparking a dynamic conversation with attendees about the intersection of education, technology, and societal impact. The session provided practical insights and innovative strategies to prepare students and young professionals for a sustainable future.

A Shared Milestone

For Kyden’s Young Professionals, this project was more than a professional achievement—it was an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Through their work, they developed new skills, gained valuable experience, and contributed to a global mission of creating a more sustainable and inclusive world.

Missed the Talk? Watch the Recording!

The recording of this inspiring COOLTalk session is now available on the MasterPeace website. We encourage everyone interested in the future of education and sustainability to explore the ideas and solutions shared during the event.

Click Here To Watch The Recording

Together, Kyden and MasterPeace have proven that partnerships between organizations and young professionals can lead to innovative solutions for global challenges. This COOLTalk is a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of the next generation to shape a better future.

Click Here To View the Final Report and One Pager

The "Computer Literacy" training program in Chikwawa, Malawi, is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering 25 young participants from November 2024 – April 2025,  to refocus their life journeys and address pressing social issues like addiction. This initiative combines technical education with life skills development, offering participants the resources they need to navigate personal and community challenges effectively.

Objectives and Training Outcomes
The primary objective of the program is to equip participants with essential computer literacy skills, including the use of software like LibreOffice tools (Libre Calc, Libre Impress, and Libre Writer). Beyond technical training, the program emphasizes personal growth and community engagement:

Building Confidence and Public Speaking: Participants have enhanced their ability to speak fluently and confidently during group discussions and presentations.
Teamwork and Problem-Solving: Collaborative activities have fostered a strong sense of unity and sharpened problem-solving abilities.
Addressing Addiction: Educational sessions on addiction have heightened self-awareness and motivated participants to work on their habits and behaviors.

The Role of Computer Literacy
This program views computer literacy as a tool for empowerment—enabling youth to access opportunities, pursue their aspirations, and take an active role in their communities. Participants reported that mastering digital tools has improved their confidence and opened doors to new possibilities in education and careers.

Community Impact: Tackling Addiction
One of the standout components of the program is its focus on addiction. Participants learned about the societal and personal impacts of addiction, inspiring them to take action in their communities. The planned initiatives include:

School Engagements: Conducting awareness sessions with students to highlight the dangers of addiction and offer strategies for avoiding it.
Community Outreach: Reaching out to individuals struggling with addiction to provide guidance, support, and practical solutions.
Empowering the Next Generation
This program represents a powerful step toward building a generation of youth who are skilled, confident, and socially responsible. By tackling addiction—a significant barrier to personal and community growth—participants are leading the way in creating positive change in Chikwawa.

Conclusion
The "Computer Literacy" program demonstrates the transformative power of education and empowerment. By equipping 25 young participants with technical skills and addressing critical social issues, the initiative not only helps them refocus their life paths but also positions them as agents of change in their community. From November 2024 to April 2025, this program will continue to make strides in fostering self-reliance, teamwork, and meaningful action in Chikwawa, Malawi.

Global Donut Days 2024 in Monastir, Tunisia : Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future.

From November 7th to 9th, 2024, MasterPeace Monastir Tunisia, with the support of Doughnut Economics, hosted an inspiring three-day training event as part of the #GlobalDonutDays 2024 initiative.

During this event, participants engaged in designing their own doughnuts, a creative exercise aimed at identifying essential human needs and ecological boundaries within their local context. It was truly inspiring to witness these young individuals share their perspectives on sustainability, thoughtfully considering how to balance well-being with planetary preservation.

This project not only fostered a deeper understanding of sustainability among the youth but also encouraged them to think critically about the future of our planet. The enthusiasm and innovative ideas presented by the participants highlight the importance of empowering the next generation to take an active role in creating a sustainable future.