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When Training Meets Business: The FoRCE Program is Transforming Benin

Benin
Initial vocational education and training
21.10.2024
Since 2022, the FoRCE program has been supporting vocational training reforms in Benin by building strong bridges between training centers and local businesses. In response to the shortage of skilled labor in key sectors such as construction and automotive and motorcycle mechanics, this program, funded by the Swiss Cooperation, aims to address market needs while improving youth employability. Discover how this initiative strengthens collaboration between artisans, trainers, and entrepreneurs to create a more promising professional future in Benin.
Participants in the workshop on creating a business network around the vocational training center of Djougou (Northwest Benin)

Adjanou Mathieu: Bridging the Gap Between Training and the Job Market

Since 2022, Adjanou Mathieu has served as the Head of the Orientation and Integration Office at the Don Bosco Technical College in Parakou, northern Benin. Over time, he realized that young graduates struggled to integrate into the professional world. Despite being well-trained, they were often out of sync with the expectations of local businesses. Growing sectors such as construction and automotive mechanics faced difficulties in recruiting qualified personnel. This disconnect highlighted the urgent need for collaboration between training institutions and the job market.

Signing of the memorandum by Bruno Ougninro, Head of the Parakou's Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry branch, regarding the business network around Don Bosco Parakou.

In 2024, through the FoRCE program, Mathieu saw an opportunity for change. The program facilitated the creation of eight business networks in northern Benin, fostering exchanges between vocational training centers and companies in relevant sectors. 

During the setup workshops, Mathieu and his peers brought together over 160 business representatives from 27 municipalities to discuss industry needs and training opportunities for young people. 

These discussions culminated in the adoption of a memorandum outlining key guidelines for the newly formed networks.

Mathieu Adjanou, Head of the Orientation and Integration Office at Don Bosco Technical College in Parakou

« This networking initiative brings the world of training closer to that of business,” says Mathieu. “It allows us to share best practices and advocate for our profession’s interests. It’s a big step forward, but the network must fulfill its mission »

Yarou Chabi Bio: Uniting Artisans for More Relevant Training

Yarou Chabi Bio, a mechanic and president of the mechanics' network in the Borgou region in northern Benin, had long dreamed of uniting artisans to tackle common challenges. However, he lacked a structured framework to do so. The FoRCE program has provided him with that opportunity, giving artisans a voice and fostering better collaboration with training centers.

Through the business network, Bio and his colleagues now regularly exchange ideas on their needs and ways to improve vocational training. “As the saying goes, unity is strength,” Bio remarks.

"This network will help us improve the training of our children and strengthen our sector. Thank you to the government for this initiative. "
Yarou Chabi Bio, President of the Mechanics Network of Borgou
Establishment of the business network at the Liweitari Training Center in Natitingou (Northwest Benin)

A Collaboration That Benefits All

Today, thanks to the FoRCE program, businesses in the construction and automotive mechanics sectors are more involved in youth training. This collaboration benefits everyone: companies can rely on a skilled and operational workforce, while vocational training centers align their offerings with the demands of the job market (self-employment and salaried employment), making their programs more relevant and attractive to young people.

Participants in the workshop on creating the business network around CPET Don Bosco Parakou, led by the National Framework for the Promotion of Vocational Education and Training (EFTP).

The Professional Training and Capacity Building for Employment Program (FoRCE) is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by Swisscontact.

2023 - 2026
Benin
Initial vocational education and training, Upskilling and Reskilling, Labour market insertion
Vocational education for the labour market (FORCE)
The programme is helping to create a more efficient and attractive vocational education system with apprenticeship training, which in turn engenders inclusive socio-economic development in Benin.
Project activities support the implementation of a national strategy for technical training and vocational education. This includes easier access to training courses in promising future professions for young people, strengthening the national education system, and supporting various reforms to improve governance in vocational education.
Learn more