The German Embassy in Lomé, Togo, recently hosted a regional meeting for experts in vocational training from six West African countries. The meeting, which took place on September 26, 2026, aimed to share Togo's successful IFAD model, which combines traditional learning with professional experience in companies. The model has been supported by Germany for several decades, with over 30,000 Togolese benefiting from the program.
The IFAD model has been instrumental in providing young Togolese with practical skills in various fields, including carpentry, mechanics, and electrical engineering. Over 1,400 individuals have been trained in these fields, among others. The project is financed by the German Development Bank (KfW) and implemented by the German Development Institute (GIZ). The program has led to the construction of IFADs across Togo, offering young people practical training in line with the job market.
Five IFADs are currently operational in Togo, covering fields such as renewable energy, aquaculture, and livestock farming. These institutes provide training in areas that are in high demand in the job market. The regional meeting provided a platform for experts from Burkina Faso, Niger, Côte d'Ivoire, Mauritania, Nigeria, and Togo to share experiences and discuss the impact of digitalization on vocational training systems.
The meeting highlighted the importance of adapting vocational training systems to meet the changing needs of the job market in West Africa. The IFAD model has been recognized for its innovative approach, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. This approach has been credited with improving the employability of young people in Togo.
Germany's support for Togo's vocational training system is part of its broader efforts to promote youth employment and development in the region. The country's commitment to vocational training has been praised by experts, who see it as a key strategy for addressing youth unemployment in West Africa.
The adoption of the IFAD model by other West African countries is seen as a positive step towards promoting regional cooperation and development. The model has the potential to be replicated in other countries, providing young people with the skills they need to compete in the job market.
The success of the IFAD model in Togo has been attributed to the collaboration between the Togolese government, German development agencies, and private sector partners. The program has demonstrated the importance of partnerships in promoting vocational training and youth employment in West Africa.
Key points
- Togo's IFAD model combines traditional learning with professional experience in companies.
- Over 30,000 Togolese have benefited from the IFAD program.
- Five IFADs are currently operational in Togo, covering fields such as renewable energy and livestock farming.
