The Digital Skills 4 Youth (DS4Y) project is a digital skills training project in partnership with Plan International Zimbabwe supported by the Swedish International Development
Cooperation Agency (SIDA). The project aims to equip 1,680 young individuals in
Zimbabwe with crucial digital and entrepreneurship skills. The overarching goal is to empower youth, with a particular emphasis on young women, enabling them to actively engage in the growing digital economy, thereby fostering sustainable income generation.
This transformative 3-year project, set to span from 2023 to 2025, will be executed across 3 urban areas (Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare) and 2 rural areas (Chiredzi, Matabeleland
North). Our multifaceted approach encompasses providing basic, intermediate, and advanced digital skills training, coupled with soft skills and entrepreneurship training
tailored to the unique contexts and opportunities in each location. In Chiredzi andMatabeleland North, we aim to set up MakerSpaces that can add value to local produce
and goods for trade at both the national and global level.
OBJECTIVES
● Skills development: equip local entrepreneurs with hands on skills and knowledge in small batch manufacturing
● Resource utilization: Teach effective use of available tools and materials to optimize
production efficiency and product quality within the constraints of a rural setting
● Innovation encouragement: Foster a culture of innovation by guiding participants in developing new product ideas and improving existing ones , tailored to local needs
and market opportunities
● Sustainability practices: promote sustainable manufacturing practices to minimize environmental impact and encourage the use of eco-friendly materials and methods
● Community engagement: build a collaborative community around the MakerSpace, encouraging knowledge sharing, networking and support among local entrepreneursand makers
● Technical support: offer ongoing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to
ensure participants can effectively operate machinery and overcome production
challenges
● Safety protocols: ensure adherence to safety protocols and best practices to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment for all users.
1. SCOPE OF WORK
o Assessment and Planning
Conduct a needs assessment to understand the community’s manufacturing
experience, resources, and goals and aspirations.
Develop a customized training curriculum and schedule based on the assessment
Identify the necessary equipment, tools, and supplies for the training
o Training Delivery
Provide comprehensive training on the operation of common manufacturing
equipment such as CNC machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, etc.
Teach skills in material selection, part design, prototyping, and production planning
Cover topics like quality control, inventory management, and lean manufacturing
principles
Facilitate hands-on workshops and project-based learning opportunities
o Mentorship and Technical Assistance
Offer one-on-one coaching and troubleshooting support during and after the
training
Provide guidance on setting up a small-scale manufacturing facility, including
layout, workflow, and safety considerations
Connect the trainees with relevant industry contacts, suppliers, and potential
customers.
o Community Engagement and Sustainability
Collaborate with local stakeholders (e.g., government, businesses, educational
institutions) to ensure long-term viability of the program
Assist in the development of a business plan and marketing strategy for the
community
‘
s small batch manufacturing ventures
Establish a mentorship program to help train new members and share knowledge
within the community
o Monitoring and Evaluation
Track progress and impact of the training program through key performance
indicators
Gather feedback from participants and stakeholders to continuously improve the
program Document the training process and share best practices with other communities

Duties and Responsibilities

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Training skills and development
● Conduct introductory sessions and orientations for MakerSpace users, introducing
them to available tools, equipment and safety protocols.
● Develop and deliver training modules on various technologies, tools and
techniques in the MakerSpace
● Provide hands-on training in areas such as 3-D printing, laser cutting, electronics
and other relevant technologies.
● Foster a learning environment that encourages skill progression and mastery.
Project Assistance, Safety and Compliance
● Offer guidance and support to individuals and groups working on projects within
the MakerSpace.
● Assist in troubleshooting technical issues and overcoming challenges.
● Enforce and educate users on safety procedures and guidelines to ensure a secure
working environment. Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to uphold safety
standards.
Resource Management and Documentation
● Manage the inventory of materials and supplies, ensuring their availability and
appropriate use.
● Collaborate with MakerSpace coordinators to recommend new tools and
technologies for acquisition.
● Maintain accurate records of training sessions, user certifications and equipment
usage. Contribute to the development of user manuals, instruction guides and
documentation.
Community Engagement
● Foster a sense of community within the MakerSpace by organising workshops,
events and collaborative projects.
● Encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration among MakerSpace users.

Qualifications and Experience

QUALIFICATIONS
● Relevant knowledge in engineering or equivalent work.
● Proficient in a variety of MakerSpace tools and technologies
● Strong communication and interpersonal skills
● Prior experience in conducting training sessions or workshops
● Knowledge of safety protocols related to MakerSpace equipment
Preferred Skills
● Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, design, project management
● Experience with project-based learning and small batch manufacturing
education
● Ability to adapt to new technologies and stay informed about emerging trends in
MakerSpace tools and equipment.
● Fluent in Shona/Ndebele.

Working Conditions:
The position may involve some weekend hours to accommodate MakerSpace user
schedules and events.
Please note that there is no relocation allowance associated with this posting. All
relocation costs are the responsibility of the selected candidate.
To apply for this position fill out the following application form by Clicking The Button Below