Fondation Paul Gérin-Lajoie

Published purpose

This project aims to reduce poverty among Senegalese youth by improving their opportunities to have decent and gainful employment through apprenticeships. Apprenticeships allow young people to obtain professional qualifications through hands-on training in a production unit under the mentorship of a craftsperson called an apprenticeship master. The project supports the Ministry of Vocational Training, Learning and Crafts and the regional stakeholders responsible for implementing vocational training through apprenticeships to improve the quality and management of apprenticeship programs. Project activities include the following: (1) developing study programs and teaching materials to support literacy and micro-business management training, including the development of business plans; (2) supporting the creation of micro-businesses by helping young women and men obtain small loans from microfinance institutions; and (3) assisting the Ministry of Vocational Training, Learning and Crafts in integrating apprenticeships into the vocational and technical training system. The project is delivered in six regions in Senegal: Thiès, Fatick, Diourbel, Kaolack, Tambacounda and Kédougou. The training programs are 14 months long and are expected to help 1,050 young people aged 15 to 26 (50 percent women).