Establishing an IT training centre within the framework of a CBO in Sierra Leone is a valuable initiative – but it requires good planning, legal clarity and sustainable organisation. Here is an overview of how your partner can implement this in practice:

✅ Steps for establishing an IT training centre through a CBO in Sierra Leone

1. 📄 Check legal requirements

• The CBO must be properly registered, e.g. with:
  • the Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs, or
  • the District Council where it operates.
• The CBO’s statutes must include education/training as an objective (revise if necessary).

2. 🧭 Define the target group and training objectives

• Who should be trained? (e.g. young people, women, unemployed men)
• What IT skills? Examples:
  • Basic skills (MS Office, Internet, email)
  • Digital literacy (online safety, Google tools)
  • Professional IT skills (web design, graphic design, simple programming)
  • Soft skills (digital communication, teamwork)

3. 🏠 Organise location and equipment

• A safe learning space with access to electricity
• Tables, chairs, blackboard or whiteboard
• Computers/laptops (at least 5–10)
• Optional: Internet connection or offline learning software (e.g. Kolibri, RACHEL)

Tip: CBOs can request donations in kind from NGOs, embassies or church partners.

4. 🧑‍🏫 Find or train trainers

• Local IT experts, teachers or committed young people can act as trainers.
• Alternatively, look for cooperation partners for train-the-trainer programmes (e.g. local NGOs, university projects).

5. 📚 Develop curriculum & methodology

• Tailor the lessons to the target group:
  • Short modules (e.g. 4 weeks)
  • Practical (learning by doing)
  • Simple language
• Issue certificates at the end (informal certificates are also valuable for job hunting).

6. 💰 Funding & sustainability

• Income: low course fees, if possible.
• Apply for funding from:
  • UNDP, GIZ, UNICEF, local embassies, ICT4D projects
  • Diaspora partnerships
• Running costs: electricity, maintenance, staff, consumables (e.g. printer paper)

7. 📢 Mobilisation & partnership

• Cooperation with:
  • Schools
  • Churches/mosques
  • Youth groups
  • Authorities (for recognition)
• Advertising with flyers, radio or in WhatsApp groups

⚠️ What does he need to pay particular attention to?

Point Why is it important?

Transparent accounting For donors and community trust

Equal access Include women and people with disabilities

Safe handling of equipment Protection against theft, clear rules of use

Simple, achievable learning goals No frustration for beginners – learn step by step

Plan for maintenance & repairs Don’t let equipment be out of service for long periods