In his opening address, Fr. Maximus Okoro, Director of Don Bosco Tech Africa, stressed the urgency of strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems that respond effectively to social and economic realities. He highlighted priorities such as recognition of prior learning (RPL), digital transformation, green skills development, and stronger partnerships, while acknowledging ongoing challenges related to coordination, resources, and capacity.

A key session focused on Malawi’s experience in implementing RPL. Mr. Patrick Mputeni, Director of Quality Assurance at the TEVET Authority of Malawi, explained how informal skills are being formally assessed and certified in trades including welding, tailoring, carpentry, plumbing, and automotive mechanics. He noted challenges such as assessment costs and low female participation in traditionally male-dominated trades, calling for targeted support measures, including scholarships. Collaboration with Don Bosco in finalising Malawi’s national RPL policy was identified as a significant step forward.

Digital innovation also featured prominently. Ms. Faith Munyalo, DBTA E-learning Developer, presented the organization’s Learning Management System, AI integration, and virtual reality initiatives, supported by partnerships with Festo, Cisco, and Electude. Mr. Dimitri Ogg, Commercial Director of Electude, announced that through the Electude Inspire initiative, free automotive training will be offered in 2026 and 2027 to trainers and trainees within the DBTA network.

On the second day, Ms. Judith Otieno of Acumen Pulse shared findings from a gender equity and inclusion study conducted in Kenya, Nigeria, DRC, Chad, and Malawi. While policies are in place, gaps remain in implementation, infrastructure, and safeguarding. Additional insights were offered by Mr. Jules Mandiedika of the MOSALA Resource Centre in the DRC.

The Assembly also highlighted sustainability efforts. Fr. Sahaya Gnanaselvam presented the Integral Ecology Plan for Don Bosco institutions in Kenya, outlining a five-year strategy focused on renewable energy, carbon reduction, water and waste management, sustainable agriculture, and ecological education. Projects include a transition to 100% solar energy by 2028 and expanded tree-planting initiatives.

In his closing remarks, Br. John Njuguna, Deputy Director of DBTA, urged stakeholders to translate commitments into concrete action, reaffirming Don Bosco Tech Africa’s mission to promote inclusive, sustainable, and quality TVET across the continent.