Project goal

In addition to vulnerable young people and women, this project also focuses on people with disabilities, especially deaf people. The IJÁ program provides these people with qualified vocational training, enabling them to become actors of their own development, strengthen their self-confidence and overcome poverty through improved income opportunities.

The IJÀ program

With mobile training units (CEDE), FUNDAP offers six-month basic courses in cutting and tailoring, hairdressing, etc. in remote rural communities. In training centres (Centro Técnico), 12- to 24-month inclusive basic and specialised courses in the same areas and electricity and motor mechanics are offered. The IJÁ program is rounded off with the accompanying and leasing program “Seguir para Emprender” for IJÁ graduates who start a small business.

Inclusive offer for deaf people

In this project, the trainers learn sign language in order to convey vocational training contents to the deaf participants in the best possible way. In addition, workshops are held to sensitise companies and state authorities to the realities of life for deaf people on the labour market. With this type of training, the IJÀ program is doing pioneering work in the field of inclusion in this region.

Our local partner

FUNDAP has been working in western Guatemala since 1981 with the aim of fighting poverty in Guatemala. Through its education programs, FUNDAP reaches around 50,000 people every year and gives them the chance to learn a trade and find a job or start a small business.