Our time is full of urgencies that we can only address through collective action. Particularly in the contexts in which Swisscontact works, there is pronounced socio-political and institutional fragility, protracted economic crisis, and ecological deterioration. Swisscontact’s core contribution to sustainable development cooperation lies in the implementation of projects: strengthening vocational skills, fostering entrepreneurship, supporting climate-smart and inclusive market systems, and ultimately contributing to job creation and improved livelihoods. 

In Niger, Mariam and Aïcha are breaking barriers and redefining what is possible for women. Mariam has built a career in a technical profession traditionally dominated by men, while Aïcha uses film to challenge stereotypes and inspire social change. Through resilience, determination and a passion for their work, they demonstrate that talent and ambition know no gender. And that women can thrive in any field they choose. 

These are facts we all know: Across different contexts, women and girls are less likely to enrol in Vocational Education and Training (VET). Even when they do, social norms often limit their access to the full range of training and career choices. Consequently, they tend to remain in professions that are less valued and less remunerated, with limited prospects for economic advancement. Once they finish VET trainings, many women and girls in countries of developing and emerging economies do not enter the world of work due to social expectations that assign them unpaid care responsibilities and restrict their mobility.