On July 8, 2024, CEM Kigobe in Bujumbura welcomed 38 participants for the inaugural in-person V2SDF event. Representatives from 10 of the 11 institutions involved in the project gathered to kick off this significant milestone, marking a new chapter in their shared commitment to sustainability and vocational education.

The event opened with a warm reception, setting the stage for a week of collaborative workshops, presentations, and hands-on training focused on eco-friendly technologies. This gathering provided an invaluable opportunity for participants to exchange ideas, share their experiences, and strengthen the bonds that drive the V2SDF project. The energy and enthusiasm among attendees highlighted the impact of coming together in person to achieve common goals, bringing the project’s vision to life and reinforcing its mission to foster environmental awareness across communities.