In Mali, young people face significant barriers to accessing education, skills development and employment. Many schools have closed due to insecurity, while large numbers of children and young people remain outside the education system or enter the labour market without qualifications. Non-formal education and vocational training remain fragmented, and links between learning, training and real economic opportunities are often weak. Young women, displaced people, refugees, young people with disabilities and those living in remote areas face additional barriers. Baaradégé addresses these challenges by creating practical and inclusive pathways rooted in local communities and connected to economic opportunities.
Baaradégé creates a continuous pathway between education, vocational training and socio-economic integration.
Out-of-school adolescents and school dropouts aged 12 to 15 can join community-based education, training and learning centres for young people, strengthen their basic skills, access guidance services and prepare for a vocational pathway.
Young people aged 15 to 35 can access training tailored to labour market needs, develop life and entrepreneurial skills, receive career guidance and benefit from tailored support towards wage employment or self-employment.
The programme works with local authorities, communities, public services, training providers and the private sector to identify promising occupations and design training that responds to local demand. It also strengthens the capacities of educators, trainers, counsellors and training providers while supporting local coordination and financing mechanisms.
Psychosocial support and socio-emotional skills development are integrated where needed, particularly for young people affected by insecurity or displacement.
Swisscontact and Enfants du Monde act as facilitators, supporting local actors to improve, manage and sustain these services.
The programme combines three closely interconnected areas of intervention: inclusive alternative education for adolescents aged 12 to 15; vocational training and labour market integration for young people aged 15 to 35; and stronger local governance of education, training and employment services.
Its approach is territorial and participatory. Local authorities and communities help define the services, while employers and other private sector actors contribute to identifying skills needs, developing training programmes and creating pathways into employment.
Gender equality, social inclusion and conflict sensitivity are integrated throughout the programme. Particular attention is given to young women, internally displaced persons, refugees, young people with disabilities and young people living in remote areas
Project partners