Abidjan prepares for a pivotal skills and jobs forum
Abidjan will host the second edition of the International Forum on Trades and Skills (FIMEC) on 15 and 16 July 2026, under the leadership of Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé. The event aims to position vocational training as a cornerstone of employment, competitiveness, and sustainable growth in Côte d’Ivoire.
The forum is organized by the National Agency for Vocational Training (AGEFOP) and falls under the Ministry of Employment, Social Protection and Vocational Training. Its theme, “Skills, employment and economic transformation in Africa: the strategic role of vocational training”, reflects the government’s commitment to aligning skills development with market needs.
Reforms driving integrated workforce strategies
The merger of vocational training into the Ministry of Employment marks a deliberate shift toward a unified public policy. This reform, championed by President Alassane Ouattara and spearheaded by Minister Adama Kamara, ties training, decent employment, and worker protection into a cohesive system designed to strengthen human capital.
It also aligns with the 2026–2030 National Development Plan (PND), which identifies human capital as a key driver of structural economic transformation. With over 80 billion USD committed by technical and financial partners to implement the PND, skills enhancement has become essential to convert investment into inclusive growth, sustainable jobs, and shared prosperity.
Two days of dialogue, innovation, and matchmaking
Over two days, FIMEC 2026 will convene government officials, ambassadors, international partners, business leaders, researchers, and vocational training experts. The program includes high-level panels, masterclasses, technical workshops, live skill demonstrations, and networking spaces where companies and learners can connect.
Discussions will address critical challenges such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, green skills, soft skills, and evolving job markets. The goal is to equip young people, workers, and businesses with the tools needed to thrive amid rapid change.
Success stories of individuals who have benefited from vocational training will also take center stage, showcasing how targeted upskilling boosts employability, fuels entrepreneurship, and closes the gap between talent supply and industry demand.
