Algeria's Minister of Vocational Training and Education, Nassima Arhab, has announced a major overhaul of the country's vocational training sector. The new approach focuses on skills development and meeting the needs of the labor market. Speaking at the launch of the new academic year, Arhab stated that the sector has shifted its approach from traditional specialties to skills-based training. This change aims to provide students with the skills required by the labor market.
The new approach is based on a national reference framework for training and skills, which aims to bring the vocational training offer in line with the real needs of the national economy. The framework was developed in coordination with various stakeholders, including economic operators, employment and investment agencies. Arhab emphasized that the goal is to provide students with skills that are in demand by the labor market. To achieve this, the ministry has identified over 12,690 training needs.
As part of the overhaul, 349,907 training places are being offered nationwide, with 23 new specialties added to the training program. These new specialties include renewable energy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and industry 4.0. A further 640 specialties have been updated to reflect changes in the job market and economic needs. The minister stated that the new approach prioritizes entrepreneurship, with the goal of enabling young Algerians to create their own jobs.
To support entrepreneurship, the ministry is providing training and accompaniment to nearly 30,000 project leaders who have already received entrepreneurship training. The ministry has also established a network of 183 entrepreneurship development centers, 25 fablabs, and incubators to support young people in developing their projects. Arhab emphasized that the sector is committed to providing high-quality training that meets the needs of the labor market.
The vocational training sector is also being expanded, with 1,054 training establishments now operating nationwide. This includes 26 new structures that have been put into service and 13 others that are nearing completion. Arhab stated that the expansion of the sector is not just about increasing the number of establishments, but also about improving the quality of training.
To improve the quality of training, the ministry is introducing new programs and equipment that reflect the needs of the job market. Eleven establishments are already undergoing certification under the ISO 21001 standard. The ministry is also providing training for staff, with over 12,000 public servants receiving promotions and 360 trainers receiving preparatory training.
The sector is also opening up to the private sector, with partnerships being established to provide training in areas such as craftsmanship and tourism. Arhab stated that the sector is committed to providing young people with the skills they need to succeed in the labor market. She encouraged students to focus on developing their skills and not just relying on a diploma.
Key points
- Algeria's vocational training sector is being overhauled to prioritize skills development and entrepreneurship.
- The sector is introducing new specialties and updating existing ones to reflect changes in the job market and economic needs.
- The ministry is providing training and accompaniment to support young people in developing their projects and creating their own jobs.
