About Us
Bringing Industry back to formalized Initial Training, Fountain Gate Crafts & Trades school stays in constant touch with the industry, discussing challenges and opportunities with technical and vocational training.
Our Directors
Gelson Maluma
Paul Golson
Helmut Reutter
Our Staff
Reinford Hachoonga
Head of Department
Solar Academy
Moses Banda
Instructor and Trainer
Electrical Technology
Patricia Mwanza
Instructor and Trainer
History
The founding of Fountain Gate Crafts & Trades School results from 3 years of intensive research and in-depth interactions with the Zambian Industry, existing Trades Schools and students of various trades. The Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (ABCEC) underwent this initiative in conjunction with the Chamber of Skilled Crafts, Frankfurt (Germany).
As a result, it was decided, that only a more holistic view of vocational training will improve the situation. That can only be achieved if industry demands are not compromised. Hence the initiative to start a new, independent and industry lead school.
ABCEC has collaborated with the Chamber of Skilled Crafts Frankfurt Rhine/Main in Germany since late 2017. That collaboration aims to draw back the industry into vocational training activities and reintroduce dual vocational training components in Zambia. Two trades were chosen for the pilot project: Electrical and Bricklaying/Formwork – 2-year craft certificates. For both trades, it was intended to verify if a curriculum adjustment/update would be necessary and to build an interlinked training situation with the industry.
In implementing partnership for the training concepts and activities, ABCEC initially chose the Thornpark Construction Training Centre, which was originally founded by ABCEC in the 90s. Over time, it proved to be challenging to introduce all necessary changes into an existing organization. Finally, it was decided by the Zambian Industry to found a new vocational training institution, where the learning of the pilot project could be implemented without compromise. In October 2019 Fountain Gate Crafts & Trade School was incorporated as a not-for-profit vocational training institution.
CORE PRINCIPLES
Fountain Gate Crafts & Trades has developed three core principles and educational goals, around which the training and the development of the students are designed. The three principles will make it easier for students to take responsibility for themselves and their further private and professional development once they leave fountain Gate Crafts & Trade.
ATTITUDE
Towards work, general duties and responsibilities and the private and
professional relationship with other individuals and groups. The right attitude
manifests in a positive and contributing behavior.
ABILITY
To perform the tasks in and around their craft to their own and clients
highest standards.
AWARENESS
Of the world around them, the changes that are happening which
require humans to change as well to adapt or oppose, and to remain humble
by being aware of the many things that are still out there to learn.
Best Practice & Preparation
To be a “best-practice” trade school to showcase how efficient, quality technical and vocational training can be implemented and to properly prepare the students for their professional life in the industry, the school will follow three guidelines to ensure that graduates have aquired a relevant and adequate skill set.
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Industry simulation at the school will prepare the students in terms of environment and behaviour.
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Practical training with many repetitions will teach the actual application of the skills.
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Regular industry attachments, where possible, will provide context and also employment opportunities.
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Boarding facilities will ensure that students from all over Zambia will be able to attend the courses while lodging in an orderly and safe environment.
