Mark Jusu dropped out of school at an early age. Financial troubles and the ongoing devastation of the civil war meant that his education was sidelined, and he spent several years moving around the country trying to find a stable source of work. When Mark found out about an auto mechanic skills and adult literacy training programme run by Tools for Self Reliance partner Craftshare, he jumped at the chance to secure his future.
I have learnt a lot with my short stay at Craftshare. I can now do maintenance on vehicles and repair parts. I can now dismantle and couple-up motor parts. Also I can identify all major components of a vehicle. I knew nothing about this skill before I came to the centre.
As well as the practical skills, Mark has received training in business entrepreneurship, HIV prevention, and literacy and numeracy, and he is now extremely proud to be able to read and write confidently. The money Mark makes with his new skills enables him to take care of himself, and he can also afford to assist his mother at home.
For the past years I had no way of making money to take care of myself, but I thank God that this project has brought a change in my life. Many people used to look low upon me before this time, but now people have respect for me because I can do something meaningful in the community.
Having now taken his final exams, Mark has high hopes for the future.
My plan is not only to set up a garage but to also help other young men in training them as an apprentice in auto mechanics.