Morocco and Mali flags © DR

Morocco and Mali inaugurate joint vocational training centre in Bamako

The Moroccan monarch, King Mohammed VI, has officially handed over the Mohammed VI Complex for Vocational Training in Bamako to Malian authorities. This state-of-the-art facility, covering 5,200 square meters, was built by the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sustainable Development and is designed to address critical skills gaps in Mali’s labour market.

Training programmes tailored to market needs

The centre will train up to 1,000 young Malians annually across 21 accredited programmes. Twelve of these focus on building and public works (BTP), while nine specialise in hospitality, tourism and catering—sectors identified as high-growth areas for Mali’s economic development.

The curriculum blends theoretical instruction with hands-on apprenticeships, equipping graduates with both technical expertise and real-world experience. This dual approach aims to improve youth employability and support Mali’s broader industrialisation goals.

A milestone in South-South cooperation

During an official visit to the centre, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita highlighted that this initiative reflects the King’s commitment to supporting African youth through practical solidarity. “This project embodies the vision of South-South cooperation based on shared knowledge, capacity-building and sustainable human development,” he stated.

Malian Minister of National Entrepreneurship, Employment and Vocational Training, Oumou Sall Seck, conveyed the country’s deep appreciation to the King. “This gesture strengthens the historic bonds between our nations and directly addresses Mali’s strategic need for skilled workers in key economic sectors,” she said. Her remarks were made on behalf of the Malian Head of State, General Assimi Goita, underscoring the project’s high-level significance.

Long-term impact on Mali’s workforce

By investing in vocational education, Morocco and Mali are laying the groundwork for long-term economic resilience. The centre’s establishment aligns with Mali’s national development priorities, particularly in infrastructure, tourism and food services—areas poised for expansion in the coming decade.

With its focus on practical, market-driven training, the Mohammed VI Complex is set to become a model for future partnerships in African vocational education.