Every year, thousands of students graduate from universities across Sierra Leone. When Aurora launched its first ICT project in 2016, access to computers and the internet was extremely limited, and many graduates entered the job market without ever having used a computer. With youth unemployment high, it was clear that practical digital skills were essential to improving young people's employability and preparing them for the workplace.
At the same time, many international companies regularly replaced their computer equipment, even when it remained in good working condition. Recognising an opportunity to bridge this gap, Aurora secured donations of computers, laptops and other equipment from SAMSKIP, a global logistics company, and Íslandsbanki, an Icelandic bank. These donations enabled Aurora to launch its first ICT training courses in Freetown in 2016, delivering several courses between 2016 and 2018.
The strong demand for practical digital skills highlighted a wider need for accessible, employment-oriented training, helping lay the foundation for Aurora Impact, which was subsequently established as a dedicated programme. Today, Aurora Impact, one of our flagship programmes, delivers 20–30 training courses each year, equipping young people with the digital and business skills they need to access employment and pursue entrepreneurial opportunities.
