Promoting vocational training and the private sector in Mauritania

Context

Mauritania has made progress in the fight against poverty in recent years. Despite this, the country has a high unemployment rate. However, the employment rate among women is considerably lower than among men. The level of education is also comparatively low. Almost 46 per cent of those over 15 cannot read or write.

The state education system does not offer enough places for training and further education to meet the needs of the labour market. At the same time, the private sector is poorly involved into training structures, training centres are poorly equipped, and trainers lack the practical knowledge needed.

The employment strategy of the Mauritanian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MEFP) and the Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Shared Prosperity (SCAPP) aim to achieve better working conditions, income, resilience and gender equality by 2030.

Objective

The employability of graduates of formal or non-formal vocational training programmes has improved.

Approach

1. The project strengthens the administrative structures, use of resources, coordination and cooperation of the MEFP, the national employment agency (TECHGHIL) and the national institute for the promotion of technical and vocational training (INAP-FTP).
2. In order to promote inclusive participation, the project involves disadvantaged groups – especially young people, young women and migrants – in local decision-making bodies that deal with employment and labour market policy.
3. It also improves formal and non-formal vocational training with innovative approaches that strengthen the practical skills of trainees. This includes updated curricula, modern teaching methods and short-term educational services that are adequate for the labour market. Which in return enables participants to acquire applicable skills and meet the labour market’s requirements.

Last update: April 2024