as part of its support for the reform of dual vocational education and training in Senegal
Many young people in Senegal, particularly in rural areas, still struggle to access quality training and sustainable economic opportunities. At the same time, businesses face difficulties finding workers with the skills they need. As the labour market evolves and production systems adapt to challenges such as climate change, vocational training needs to respond more effectively to local economic realities. The project therefore supports Senegal's national dual vocational training reform, strengthening the links between training, businesses and employment.
Building on the achievements of Sahel Opportunités II, the project contributes to strengthening Senegal's dual vocational training system over the long term. It works at three complementary levels: national, territorial and economic.
At national level, it supports public institutions in implementing the country's dual vocational training reform. At territorial level, it strengthens training centres and Integrated Agricultural Training Sites so they can become spaces for learning, experimentation and innovation adapted to local economic realities.
The project also builds stronger connections between young people and the world of work by bringing together training centres, businesses, professional organisations and financing actors. Businesses help identify the skills they need, host trainees and contribute to developing training pathways that better reflect labour market demand.
The project also promotes youth entrepreneurship, agroecological innovation and more inclusive financing solutions. Its beneficiaries include young people and women, as well as rural producers, training centres, businesses and professional organisations.
Focused on systems change
Beyond training, the project aims to create a more supportive environment for young people's economic integration while strengthening rural economies. Particular attention is given to women and young entrepreneurs.
The private sector plays a central role. Businesses contribute to work placements, mentoring and the development of training programmes, helping ensure that acquired skills correspond more closely to market needs.
Integrated Agricultural Training Sites will progressively be strengthened as territorial innovation hubs, incorporating areas such as agroecology, renewable energy, agricultural processing and fish farming. Experiences and approaches will be documented and shared to inform the national reform and encourage their replication in other regions of Senegal.
Project partners