The launch of the READY Salone project marks a significant step toward empowering Sierra Leonean youth with digital skills, enhancing their ability to engage with the increasingly digital economy. The initiative, spearheaded by the International Trade Centre (ITC), is aimed at equipping young entrepreneurs, particularly women and individuals with disabilities, with the skills necessary to thrive.
Funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and set to be implemented over the next four years, the READY Salone project seeks to bridge the digital skills gap among Sierra Leone's youth. Pamela Coke-Hamilton, ITC's Executive Director, described the initiative as transformative, stating, "Trade is digital. It's how business happens now, and young people are leading the way. Through READY Salone, we’re partnering with government and business to create a digital-friendly environment and build the online skills of youth, women and persons with disabilities. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders across the country."
The project's framework revolves around four main interventions: enhancing digital literacy, fostering entrepreneurial competitiveness, strengthening tech-focused business support services, and developing inclusive national digital strategies. Through these efforts, the initiative aims to support approximately 3,000 youth and 250 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, effectively opening doors to digital opportunities.
The educational outreach will also include awareness campaigns targeted at around 10,000 young individuals, promoting the benefits of digital education, career paths, and entrepreneurial ventures. These campaigns seek to inspire and motivate young women by engaging local role models who can demonstrate the value of pursuing careers within the digital economy.
During the launch event, key government officials lent their support, emphasizing the importance of the READY Salone project for national development. “Sierra Leonean youth are the backbone of our economy. We are excited to see how they will apply the skills and tools acquired from the project to build their careers and contribute to their communities and country,” remarked Hon. Mohamed Orman Bangura, the Minister of Youth Affairs, speaking to the potential impact of this initiative.
Haja Salimatu Bah, the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, also commented, stating, “The READY Salone project’s focus on creating digital jobs and successful digital freelancers aligns perfectly and contributes directly to our national goals and initiatives. We look forward to collaborating with ITC to amplify the impact of our work.”
The partnership between ITC and the Sierra Leonean government showcases the ambition to leverage digital technology to uplift the youth and enrich the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This is particularly relevant for the nation as it embraces the digital age, which promises new avenues for economic growth.
The project officially commenced with the signing of a memorandum of agreement between ITC, represented by Coke-Hamilton, and various government officials including Hon. Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Chief Minister. Following the signing ceremony, the excitement continued as young participants engaged in slogan competitions aimed at building awareness and enthusiasm for the READY Salone objectives.
On the second day of the project, discussions involving financial institutions and stakeholders from the tech and youth ecosystems focused on advancing inclusive finance for women and developing the Skills for Youth Employment Fund (SkYE) in Sierra Leone. These discussions are aimed at creating pathways for securing the necessary resources and support systems for young entrepreneurs developing their skills through the READY Salone initiative.
With these targeted efforts, the READY Salone project embodies the spirit of innovation and inclusivity, setting the stage for Sierra Leone's youth to become adept players within the global digital economy. The ambitious goals laid out align with the vision for national growth and transformation, marking this initiative as pivotal not only for the individuals it aims to support but for the country's economic future.