Solidarity Initiative for Refugees (SIR) is a refugee-led organization based in Kakuma, Kenya. We are unlocking the economic potential of displaced youth by providing a "Finish Line" to their digital education turning learners into high-value technology providers for the global digital economy.
For too long, digital programs in refugee settings have focused on basic literacy without a path to employment. In Kakuma, 75% of youth are under 35, yet they remain disconnected from the global workforce due to a lack of advanced technical skills, reliable devices, and market linkages.
We believe that location is not a limitation. With the right skills and tools, refugee youth can compete on a global stage, move from aid dependency to self-reliance, and contribute to the host country’s economy.
At SIR, we don’t just teach people how to use computers; we prepare them for careers. Our program provides an end-to-end ecosystem for digital success:
We recognize that digital work requires more than just a screen. Our program removes the systemic barriers to participation:
Graduates don't just finish a course; they launch a professional identity. We bridge the gap between "trained" and "hired" by supporting students in building high-value profiles on global platforms.
We ensure our graduates are not just ready to work, but are discovery-optimized for the global digital economy.
| Problem | Activity | Outcome | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lack of high-level skills and infrastructure keeps refugee youth in the "entry-level" trap. | Digital Hubs, Market-relevant skills, Mentorship, Job placement, Equipment provision. | Learners secure high-value remote contracts and professional certifications. | A new generation of tech-autonomous refugees driving innovation. |
Our elite 'Triple-Stack' software engineering program. It prepares residents for high-value careers in DevOps and AI-integrated product development through intense technical sprints.
A targeted initiative providing comprehensive digital skills and financial literacy training for female refugee youth, designed to bridge the gender gap in the digital economy.
A holistic digital skills program that combines technical upskilling with mentorship, life skills, and community engagement to create sustainable employment pathways.
A specialized creative arts program equipping refugees with technical 2D animation and storytelling skills for global creative industries.
Learn, Earn, Innovate
Solidarity Initiative for Refugees (SIR) is a community-based organization established in 2016 in response to the pressing challenges faced by refugees in Kakuma, Turkana County in Kenya.
Copyright © 2026 Solidarity Initiative for Refugees
Developed by Pixart.
