Project goal

To ensure the training quality of the existing academies and the scalability and transferability of the SINA model in new regions, the project aims to develop a training and development programme with measurable learning objectives and a requirements profile for future trainers as well as to define quality standards that enable an efficient monitoring. SINA will train and certify a new generation of master trainers according to these new criteria. In addition to a training programme for financial management and fundraising, a digital platform (eCampus) will be created to promote the exchange of experiences between trainers and scholarship holders (best practices, necessary adjustments, etc.). This platform can also be used to provide materials and resources to support the work in the SINA Academies.

The SINA Concept

Many Ugandans with an inner drive and a lot of potential that could be unleashed try to make a living through self-employment. Successful business management requires various skills, such as detailed cost calculations, transparent accounting, reserves for emergencies and re-investment in the business, which can be challenging for many. These young people bring initiative, perseverance, and a willingness to help others. SINA’s personality and entrepreneurship programme builds on this and accompanies them on their way to setting up a business through a comprehensive learning process that promotes their personal and professional development.

The SINA Network

As the participants manage and run the academy themselves, they have replicated the concept independently at a new location. As a result, 8 academies have been established in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe. At the same time, there is growing demand from non-profit organisations wishing to replicate the SINA model. With the creation of each new academy new experiences and lessons learned were gained and the methodology underwent further development. However, there is no structured exchange of knowledge and experience between the SINA Academies. This has led to differences between the academies, which have an impact primarily on the participants and on the quality of the programme, as well as on the sustainability of the individual academies in the medium term.

Our local partner

In 2014, the first Social Innovation Academy (SINA) was founded in Mpigi with the aim of creating jobs for young people in Uganda through the establishment of social enterprises. Young Ugandans from marginalised and socially disadvantaged backgrounds (including refugees, orphans, former child soldiers or young people from extreme poverty) are to develop their potential and learn the skills they need to set up social enterprises.