Three Scout leaders from Ethiopia, Namibia and Nigeria completed a two-week On-the-Job Training (OJT) programme at the World Scout Bureau Africa Support Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.
The programme brought together Melese Zewdu Teketel from the Ethiopia Scout Association, Ososanya Martins Idowu from the Scout Association of Nigeria, and Muandingi Ndawedwa from Scouts of Namibia, all of whom play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of their National Scout Organizations.
Designed to strengthen National Scout Organizations (NSOs), the training combined practical learning, exchanges with the Africa Support Centre team and first-hand exposure to how World Scouting supports NSOs across the region.
Over the two weeks, participants explored key areas of NSO management and development, including capacity strengthening, good governance, communications and youth engagement. They also had opportunities to exchange experiences with the Kenya Scouts Association, build connections and see Scouting in action through visits to projects in Embu and an exposure visit to Nyeri, the Global Scouting City.
Reflecting on the experience, Muandingi Ndawedwa from Scouts of Namibia said the opportunity to learn directly from different teams was a highlight.
Seeing how regional initiatives translate into support for NSOs on the ground was particularly valuable. I also appreciated the learning around NSO capacity strengthening, good governance and youth engagement, as well as the opportunity to network with the regional team and other colleagues.
Through practical learning opportunities such as the OJT programme, the Africa Support Centre continues to support NSOs to strengthen their capacities and deliver quality Scouting experiences for young people.