APPRENTICESHIP

Empowering São Tomé Youth Through Apprenticeships

Introduction

At CACAE Association, we believe education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. That’s why we proudly launched our Apprenticeship Program in 2022, aiming to guide young beneficiaries from education to meaningful employment. By connecting students with professional training and hands-on experience, we empower São Tomé's youth to build sustainable futures.

How It All Began

From the start, our goal was clear: create opportunities for low-income families by providing free apprenticeships for their children. In São Tomé, financial hardships often force young people into low-paying jobs instead of pursuing education.

In 2022, we reached out to local businesses, encouraging them to offer free apprenticeship positions. While companies faced no cost, CACAE provided a monthly subsidy to support the students. The results were transformative:

  • Bike Repair Shops: Developing mechanical skills.
  • Bamboo Furniture Workshops: Encouraging craftsmanship and creativity.
  • Automotive Mechanics: Building practical expertise.
  • Steelwork Workshops: Teaching precision and technical abilities.

BIKE SHOP

BIKE REPAIR

Partnering with Professional Training Centers

Our partnerships with São Tomé’s professional training institutions have been a cornerstone of the program’s success. Here are some of our key achievements:

  • Autumn 2023: Four students completed a Steelwork/Welding Apprenticeship program, earning diplomas after four months of training.
  • Summer 2024: Four students enrolled in a Civil Construction Training Program, with three successfully completing their courses.
  • Summer 2024: A student joined the Tourism and Hotel Management School for a four-month cooking program. He completed an internship at a local restaurant, where CACAE supported him in perfecting his internship report.
  • January 2025: Six individuals, including the mother of one of our beneficiaries, began a three-month Bakery and Pastry Training Program.

All training and associated costs are fully covered by CACAE, ensuring accessibility for our students.

Our Professional Partners

We are proud to collaborate with renowned training centers in São Tomé, including:

  • Centro Profissional Brasileiro
  • Centro Profissional de Budo Budo
  • Escola de Hotelaria e Turismo

These partnerships enable us to equip young people with the skills needed to succeed in São Tomé's job market.

C.F. BRASILEIRO

C.F BUDO BUDO

E.H TURISMO

Calling São Tomé Businesses

Are you a business owner in São Tomé? Consider partnering with us to provide internship opportunities for our students. By offering practical experience, you can help shape the next generation of skilled professionals.

We’re also seeking financial partners to support the expansion of this impactful program. Your contributions can fund training, subsidies, and more opportunities for São Tomé’s youth.