Senegal relies on dual training to improve youth employability

A partnership with Switzerland to strengthen vocational training

Since 2014, Senegal has been collaborating with Switzerland to benefit from its expertise in vocational training . This collaboration aims to improve the employability of Senegalese learners by drawing inspiration from the Swiss model, which is recognized worldwide. The Senegalese government recently included in its development program for 2050 “the massification of dual training”, a system that combines classroom learning with work experience. The objective is to better align training with the real needs of the labor market and reduce youth unemployment.

A conclusive experimental phase and expanded ambitions

In 2022, a first phase of experimentation of dual training was carried out, reaching 120 young people in the hotel sector. Following this success, the government wishes to extend this approach to other key sectors such as digital, agribusiness, and construction. Senegal has also requested financial and technical support from Switzerland to develop this training model and encourage more enrollments in vocational courses. The objective by 2030 is to direct 30% of young people leaving the basic cycle towards vocational training .

A global strategy for quality and inclusive education

The new program, called Senegal 2030 , provides for actions beyond dual training, encompassing the entire education sector. The roadmap emphasizes the development of national human resources through quality, inclusive and accessible education. By 2050, the ambition is to enroll more than 90% of young people of learning age and to ensure that 90% of them complete their studies with a diploma or official recognition of their skills.

Conclusion: A key lever for development and employment

By relying on dual training , Senegal aims to create a workforce better adapted to market needs and to strengthen the employability of young people. The partnership with Switzerland and the extension of this approach to several strategic sectors demonstrate the country’s commitment to building a more dynamic and inclusive economy by 2050, while valuing its human resources.