Empowering youth through resilience
Building futures through skills training at Instituto Polivalente de Marrere (IPOMA)
In the shadow of violence and turmoil, hope blossoms in unlikely places. At the Instituto Polivalente de Marrere in Mozambique, a powerful transformation is underway. Through the support of the International Labour Organization’s; Government of Mozambique (MozGov) and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) funded Decent Work for Youth in Mozambique Project, known as Projecta Jovem, the Institute is not only equipping young people with essential skills but also empowering them to reclaim their futures in a country scarred by conflict.
25 April 2025
NAMPULA, Mozambique (ILO News) - For many of these youths, the opportunity represents more than education—it’s a lifeline, a second chance, and a glimmer of hope amidst chaos. Behind the walls of IPOMA Polytechnic are stories of resilience and survival.
Many students are internally displaced and come from Cabo Delgado province, a region ravaged by conflict, where the relentless grip of violence has uprooted families and shattered dreams.
For these young people, the ongoing war has denied them access to education, leaving them with little to anchor their aspirations. Yet, through the efforts of Projecta Jovem project, 150 youths have already received professional skills trainings at the Institute, and the current enrollment of 75 stands as a testament to the hunger for learning and growth that persists even in the face of adversity.
Importantly, the programme has extended its reach to the local communities surrounding Nampula’s Marrere area, opening doors for those who have long been sidelined from skills training opportunities.
The youths from these communities, who face their own set of challenges in accessing education, are finding renewed hope through the Institute’s inclusive approach.
By providing professional training in fields vital to Mozambique’s development, the Institute is fostering a new generation of skilled workers, united in their quest to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.
For these students, stepping into the lecture rooms of IPOMA professional training institute is not just an academic pursuit—it’s an act of defiance against the odds.
The newly constructed lecture rooms, made possible by Projecta Jovem’s project support, offer a sanctuary where young minds can focus on building skills and hope for brighter futures.
Sometimes it feels like a dream. After everything I have been through, to be here and acquire skills in Civil construction. It gives me strength to keep going.
Dacilia Francisco, 20 years old construction student
The Institute’s Director, Wilson Deveque, who has worked tirelessly to nurture this sponsorship programme, reflects on the emotional transformation of his students.
“When they first arrive, many of them are quiet, almost lost in their own thoughts,” he says.
As they begin to learn and interact, you can see the spark come back. The belief that they can build something better for themselves and their families. That’s the real impact of this sponsorship programme.
Wilson Deveque, Institute Director
For the youths enrolled at IPOMA, every lesson learned represents more than a skill gained—it’s a piece of their dignity and dreams restored.
As the Institute continues to grow, fuelled by the unwavering support of the ILO’s Projecta Jovem project, the hope for sustainability remains strong.
By including students from both conflict-hit Cabo Delgado and the local communities, the sponsorship programme is creating a shared sense of empowerment, resilience, and possibility.
Magreth Eduardo, 25 years old carpentry student
I want to give back to the community. One day, I will help others acquire skills, just as this place helped me.
