Société pour la Promotion des Entreprises Spécialisées (SPES)
The SPES Research, Training, and Craft Production Centre features a high-tech design unit along with six specialised workshops in screen printing, basket weaving, ceramics, sewing, weaving, crochet, embroidery, and wood and metalwork. SPES also operates two rural craft workshops specialising mainly in textile assembly, including "Aubusson" weaving and weaving based on designs by local artists. The introduction of the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) unit has significantly improved the quality of the workshop products and their subsequent marketing.
Our free Hi-Tech & CAD – Computer-Aided Design training unit enables individuals of all ages to acquire skills in various fields through digital tools, increasing their chances of breaking the cycle of poverty. It also demonstrates how the effective use of high-tech innovations can transform traditional learning models for all age groups.
Accreditation Number with the National Social Inclusion Foundation: NCSRF/2017/0173
- The project “Model Mum’s Village e-Classroom” provides rapid learning of basic literacy skills and the acquisition of eco-craftsmanship skills.
- The “Couleur Locale” initiative utilises natural fibres and dyes extracted from local plants, creating employment in the craft and textile sectors for the tourist market.
- The “Road-Prudent Behaviour” project features an interactive table illustrating road traffic with miniature vehicles and electronic instruction books to teach children the basics of responsible road behaviour.
- The AVR Experience – Augmented Virtual Reality is available in a free cybercafé for children, equipped with advanced equipment, including a 3D camera.
- Cyber cafés for children offer free access to technology and digital learning resources.
Beneficiaries: SPES primarily serves vulnerable children and adults living in poverty who have not completed their schooling, as well as adult women who are illiterate.
SPES was founded in 1967 by a group of volunteers with the initial goal of promoting training and the emergence of specialised enterprises to create employment for individuals from vulnerable backgrounds. Initially focusing on home economics schools, SPES has evolved to stay aligned with global trends towards improving the planet through eco-friendly development.
Over time, the leaders of SPES and our E-Training teams have expanded their research into educational, vocational, and entrepreneurial tools, introducing cyber-innovations into all our training sections. This approach has led to the incorporation of advanced technology and methodologies in our programmes.
Our craft training units have extended their reach to individuals from rural areas, significantly improving the socio-economic status of local artisans. This approach has encouraged the decentralisation of regional industries, as many young women who completed the house-keeping training programme at the "Ecoles Ménagères" have become entrepreneurs or joined nearby industrial firms. Some individuals who participated in this training have remained with our training and production units for nearly 30 years.
Since 1981, SPES has invested in electronic equipment for screen printing. In 1987, SPES acquired design software, and in 1989, launched a high-tech design training unit using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) as a tool, primarily for textiles (crochet, weaving, and embroidery), as well as 3D programmes for woodworking and ceramics.
The objectives of SPES are to promote:
- Local Craftsmanship:
- The emergence of small enterprises
- The production and marketing of local products
- Breaking the cycle of poverty
- Use of High Technologies:
- Research and training
- Cultural exchanges
- Breaking the cycle of poverty
The SPES team of trainers provides free specialised training and mentorship to future educators in non-formal education for vulnerable children and adults. This is achieved through specialised basic courses in rapid learning and multi-literacy, as well as incorporating basic skills in eco-craftsmanship. The training utilises modern and high-tech educational resources to ensure effective and impactful learning.
SPES generates funding through the sale of artisanal products crafted by employees and sold in our boutique. Additionally, the organisation receives financial assistance and support from the honorary members of the board of directors.