The Projet emploi jeunes et développement des compétences (PEJEDEC) in Côte d'Ivoire has successfully surpassed its target of 27,500 young people in its first phase. According to Hermann Toualy, director of the Bureau de coordination des programmes emploi (BCP-Emploi), the project has achieved an impressive insertion rate of around 80% for beneficiaries of certain internship programs. This milestone was announced during the "Open Days" of the World Bank Group in Côte d'Ivoire, held on September 21 and 22.
Launched in 2012 with financial support from the World Bank, PEJEDEC has undergone three phases. The first phase, allocated $50 million, targeted 27,500 young people but exceeded its objective. The second phase, also funded at $50 million, aimed to support 31,500 young people. The third phase, initiated in 2022 with a $150 million financing, plans to accompany 102,000 young people through various programs, including internships, conversion, training, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship.
The BCP-Emploi is responsible for coordinating and managing the project's funds and activities, while implementation is entrusted to partners such as the Agence Emploi Jeunes (AEJ) and the Agence nationale de la formation professionnelle (AGEFOP). Additionally, PEJEDEC collaborates with the Observatoire national de l'emploi et de la formation (ONEF) to establish the Système d'information sur le marché du travail (SIMT), aimed at improving available data for decision-making.
The third phase of PEJEDEC, set to conclude by the end of 2026, is currently under discussion between the government and the World Bank for a possible extension. In parallel, the ministry in charge of youth employment is considering a longer-term program dedicated to youth employment and empowerment. This initiative seeks to provide sustainable solutions for Côte d'Ivoire's young population.
During the "Open Days" event, Hermann Toualy presented the project's results and the pathways of several beneficiaries. The event, held at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire, brought together stakeholders to discuss the project's impact and future prospects. The success of PEJEDEC has demonstrated the potential for collaborative efforts between the government, international organizations, and local agencies to address youth employment challenges.
The project's accomplishments have significant implications for Côte d'Ivoire's youth employment landscape. With an insertion rate of around 80%, PEJEDEC has shown that targeted interventions can lead to substantial positive outcomes. As the project continues to evolve, it is likely to serve as a model for similar initiatives in the region.
As Côte d'Ivoire continues to address the challenges facing its young population, initiatives like PEJEDEC will play a crucial role in shaping the country's future. The project's focus on providing skills training, internships, and entrepreneurship opportunities will help equip young people with the tools they need to succeed in the workforce.
Key points
- The PEJEDEC project has exceeded its target of 27,500 young people in its first phase.
- The project has achieved an impressive insertion rate of around 80% for beneficiaries of certain internship programs.
- The third phase of PEJEDEC plans to accompany 102,000 young people through various programs.
