Skillforce-Ready: A U.S.-Funded Workforce Development Program
Thousands of young Sudanese professionals were building promising careers before the war disrupted their lives. Many have found themselves displaced in Egypt, facing the challenge of starting over in a new environment with limited resources and opportunities.
To address this urgent need, the American Center Khartoum, with funding from the U.S. government, has launched Skillforce-Ready — a transformative workforce re-engagement and upskilling program designed specifically for war-affected Sudanese youth in Cairo.
What Is the Skillforce-Ready Program?
Skillforce-Ready is a competitive, no-cost workforce development initiative aimed at helping displaced Sudanese professionals regain career momentum and reconnect with the job market. The program focuses on rebuilding confidence, upgrading essential soft and technical skills, and improving employability in today’s evolving world of work.
This initiative was created by a U.S. Exchange alumna and is fully funded to ensure accessibility for eligible participants.
Key Program Benefits
Participants in Skillforce-Ready gain access to a powerful set of career-enhancing tools and training opportunities, including:
- Mindset Transformation & Confidence Building
- Career Goal Setting and Professional Planning
- Business English & Communication Skills
- Job Interview Preparation and Workplace Readiness
- Soft Skills Development (leadership, teamwork, adaptability)
- Digital Professional Branding & Online Presence
- Professional Networking with Like-Minded Sudanese Talent
This program doesn’t just train—it empowers you to re-enter the workforce stronger than before.Participants in Skillforce-Ready gain access to a powerful set of career-enhancing tools and training opportunities, including:
- Mindset Transformation & Confidence Building
- Career Goal Setting and Professional Planning
- Business English & Communication Skills
- Job Interview Preparation and Workplace Readiness
- Soft Skills Development (leadership, teamwork, adaptability)
- Digital Professional Branding & Online Presence
- Professional Networking with Like-Minded Sudanese Talent
This program doesn’t just train—it empowers you to re-enter the workforce stronger than before.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Skillforce-Ready program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
✔ Displaced in Egypt due to the Sudan war
✔ Holding valid residency or refugee status in Egypt
✔ Minimum B1 English proficiency (assessed through the application)
✔ Proven professional experience in Sudan before the war
✔ Evidence of professional activity in Egypt within the last two years
Important Note:
If you are living outside Cairo and get selected, you must be willing to relocate and stay in Cairo for the full duration of the program.
Why This Program Matters Now
War has interrupted countless professional journeys — from doctors and accountants to engineers, IT specialists, sales experts, and project managers. Many once had established careers, recognition, and growth paths.
Skillforce-Ready is designed to help displaced Sudanese:
- Restart their careers
- Rebuild their networks
- Gain in-demand skills
- Increase job market access
- Regain confidence and direction
It is more than training — it is a lifeline for career resurgence.
U.S. Federal Government Funded Project
Skillforce Ready serves as a call to action, empowering aspiring Sudanese youth displaced in Egypt to pursue economic prosperity amidst the challenges of displacement. By shifting these talented workers’ learning mindsets, refining their Business English skills, and fostering application of the improved language skills in a practical, workplace-oriented context, Skillforce Ready facilitates a shift towards employment and empowerment.
Project Monitoring and Evaluation: U.S. Sudan Office of Affairs (Cairo Team)
Project Management: U.S. Exchange Alumna: Architect, Educator, and Career Coach Maria Sulaiman (founder of Mariasoft-Skills)
Educational Leadership: U.S. Exchange Alumna: Educational consultant Eman Darwish; Educational Consultant at Nehdat Misr.
Project Financial Management: Mayadah Elsanousi, Project Finance Accountant Ericsson
Project Outreach Specialist: Samah Samson. Business Development Manager.
