The National Agency for Vocational Training (AGEFOP) in Côte d’Ivoire recently unveiled a groundbreaking study report in Abidjan, highlighting the critical alignment between young workers’ skills and the nation’s economic demands. The event, held on June 18, 2026, introduced findings from the Passeport-Compétences program—a flagship initiative designed to bridge the gap between training and employment.
Groundbreaking study identifies real-world skill demands
The pilot phase of this study surveyed over 800 formal and informal sector enterprises across the Sud-Comoé region, Yopougon commune, and the Savanes District. These insights will soon expand nationwide to inform future vocational training policies.
National leaders endorse skills-based approach
Dr. Eugène Aka Aouélé, President of the Economic, Social, Environmental, and Cultural Council (CESEC), emphasized that this initiative marks a shift from guesswork to data-driven workforce development. “Matching skills to job market needs isn’t just an ideal—it’s a systematic process rooted in real data,” he stated. “This program places human capital at the heart of Côte d’Ivoire’s progress, providing a clear roadmap for public policy in vocational training.”
He further noted that President Alassane Ouattara has consistently prioritized youth employability in the national agenda.
Maître Adama Kamara, Minister of Employment, Social Protection, and Vocational Training, reinforced this vision: “The Passeport-Compétences program isn’t about fixing past failures but accelerating a movement where economic growth translates into skilled employment.” The initiative aims to:
- Map nationwide skill demands
- Train and integrate beneficiaries into the economy
- Validate informal sector workers’ expertise
- Provide businesses with qualified talent
The minister added that field feedback will help refine training curricula, redirect resources to high-demand sectors, and strengthen partnerships between businesses, local governments, and state agencies.
AGEFOP redefines vocational training as economic catalyst
Karidia Coulibaly De Medeiros, AGEFOP Director-General, hailed President Ouattara’s commitment to human capital development as a cornerstone of the country’s transformation. “Vocational training is no longer a social expense—it’s a strategic investment for national competitiveness, job creation, and sustainable prosperity,” she declared.
The Passeport-Compétences program embodies a new model linking training, local economies, and industry needs. “Effective training requires knowing exactly what skills businesses, regions, or sectors will need today—and tomorrow,” she explained. “By starting from the ground up—listening to employers, analyzing evolving professions, and anticipating future trends—we ensure training remains relevant and impactful.”
De Medeiros concluded: “This program creates a shared language among businesses, local authorities, training institutions, and communities. It transforms skills into a strategic asset for the nation, empowering every Ivoirian to turn potential into recognized expertise—and expertise into sustainable employment.”
The Passeport-Compétences initiative, launched in March 2025 in Grand-Bassam, is a cornerstone of Côte d’Ivoire’s national human capital development strategy, designed to equip the workforce for long-term economic integration.
