DRC: Discussions with Germany for Collaboration in Vocational Training
A strategy to combat unemployment
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is seeking to reduce unemployment by focusing on vocational training. The country wants to draw inspiration from the German model, which combines classroom theory and business practice. Discussions have begun between the DRC and Germany to establish a partnership in this area, with a view to strengthening Congolese professional skills.
Summit meetings between the DRC and Germany
Ministerial discussions
On October 9, Congolese Minister of Vocational Training Marc Ekila met with German Ambassador to the DRC Ingo Herbert to discuss the possibility of adapting the German training system to the Congolese reality. This model emphasizes a balanced training between theoretical learning and practical experience in companies, aiming to support the Congolese government in its efforts.
A collaboration explored at a high level
The issue of this collaboration had already been discussed the day before during a meeting between the Congolese Prime Minister, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, and the German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Svenja Schulze, on the sidelines of the Conference on Sustainable Development in Hamburg. Ms. Tuluka expressed the DRC’s interest in strengthening this partnership in various sectors, including vocational training.
Towards a transformation of the training sector in the DRC
Inspired by the South African model
During the International Skills Day on July 15, Minister Ekila stressed the importance of reforming the vocational training sector to better respond to the challenge of unemployment. The DRC hopes to build on the German experience, following the example of South Africa, which signed a similar partnership with Germany in 2021. This skills development model, based on the combination of theory and practice, is one of the pillars of German economic stability.
Conclusion: A promising partnership for skills development in the DRC
The collaboration under discussion with Germany could offer the DRC a unique opportunity to modernize its vocational training system. By drawing inspiration from the German model, the country hopes to equip its young people with the right tools to enter the job market, thereby reducing unemployment and strengthening the country’s economic stability.
