This model combines theoretical classroom training with practical experience in leading companies, fostering a synergy between learning and workplace experience.
Through this approach, Swisscontact contributes to building a future where education and employment progress hand in hand.
The city of Cali has become a living laboratory for this model. In partnership with leading companies in Colombia and Latin America – such as Colombina, Ingenio Riopaila-Castilla, Harinera del Valle, and Ingenio Mayagüez – a pilot program was launched that enabled 60 workers to complete specialized dual training programs.
These programs go beyond technical skills. In addition to 150 hours of structured training, participants developed socio-emotional skills such as teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving. These skills enhance their employability and deliver direct benefits to the companies.
For the workers, this means greater job stability and better career prospects.
For the companies, it means having access to more qualified, efficient, and motivated talent.
This initiative is not carried out in isolation. Swisscontact has collaborated closely with universities, technical institutes, regional development agencies, and business associations to co-create the training programs.
Partners such as the Universidad Autónoma de Occidente, the Politécnico Internacional de Occidente, and the Private Council for Competitiveness ensure that the model is relevant, inclusive, and scalable.
This transformation is helping to close the gap between education and employment, offering workers and young people access to opportunities that truly change lives. In Valle del Cauca, for example, the unemployment rate dropped from 12.3% to 10% in just one year, and programs like this are part of that positive trend.