The Skilling Eco-VET project, co-financed by the European Union, aims to facilitate the transition of vocational education and training (VET) to the local labor market while strengthening the employability of vulnerable groups. The goal is to reduce irregular migration by improving employment opportunities. Nine partners from six countries (Italy, Spain, Finland, Ghana, Senegal, Kenya) are involved in this project, with main activities focused on adapting VET to market needs.
On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, the first meeting of the public-private partnership group was held in Tambacounda, Senegal. The event brought together key stakeholders from VET, businesses, and local institutions to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to youth employment.
During the meeting, several points were discussed, including ways to support the transition of young people to employment. The Vocational Education and Training Enterprise Program (PF2E), which allows students to be trained in companies for 80% of their time, was highlighted as a good practice example. However, improvements are needed, particularly in terms of aligning training with market needs and providing better career guidance for youth.
Future sectors identified include hydrocarbons, mining, agribusiness, as well as mechanics, hospitality, and tourism. Participants also emphasized the importance of establishing assessment tools to measure students’ readiness for the labor market, as well as strengthening collaboration between training centers and businesses through the Competency-Based Approach (CBA).
Additionally, the importance of digital platforms like Pôle Emploi and ANPEJ, which facilitate connections between students and businesses, was discussed. The development of community-based channels to improve information access was also proposed.
The meeting led to the validation of the Protocol of Agreement and the Apprenticeship Contract, with adjustments made to better support trainees, such as replacing the term “salary” with “compensation.” In conclusion, this meeting marked an important step toward better integrating young people into the labor market, thanks to a strengthened collaboration between the public and private sectors.
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