Youth Employment and Skills Development Project (PEJEDEC)

PEJEDEC 3 is the third phase of a national program aimed at improving the employability and socio-economic integration of young Ivorians. It builds on the previous phases (PEJEDEC 1 & 2) by expanding its scope and enhancing the quality of services offered. The intervention strategy is based on a dual approach: supply-side (improving the quality and relevance of vocational training) and demand-side (supporting self-employment and integration into growth sectors). The program is designed to be inclusive, specifically targeting the most vulnerable and disadvantaged youth, and aims to strengthen human capital for sustainable growth.

Improving employability: Significantly increase young people's (men and women's) access to quality vocational training that meets the needs of promising sectors.

Supporting entrepreneurship: Promote the creation and development of Very Small, Small, and Medium Enterprises (VSMEs/SMEs) by young people, by providing financial, technical, and incubation support.

Strengthening institutional governance: Consolidate the capacities of national institutions (Ministries, Agencies) responsible for employment and vocational training policy for more effective and sustainable management.

Focusing on inclusion: Reduce regional and gender disparities in access to employment opportunities, with a particular focus on vulnerable youth and women.