A turbulent year is slowly coming to an end. In November, we were able to hand over certificates to another 148 graduates of the vocational training courses in El Alto. During the last few months, the women learned how to make salteñas, a Bolivian speciality, or how to bake bread, for example, partly digitally and partly in face-to-face classes. There were also more technical courses. For example, some participants learned how to repair computers or digital marketing.

In addition, the long-awaited driving courses took place this month. They are aimed at women whose families already own a vehicle and are thus involved in public transport. With a driving licence, the women can also work as minibus drivers and thus contribute to the family’s income.

Elena Catarí Ortiz (41) explains: “I have three children. The oldest is 18 years old, she was born with a disability. I could not continue my career as a secretarial assistant. I was always looking for a job where I could take her with me, but it was impossible. Thanks to this course, there is possibility to work as a bus driver for my daughter’s school.”