Abidjan, July 14, 2026 – The second edition of the International Skills and Occupations Forum (FIMEC) kicks off tomorrow in Abidjan, bringing together top officials, industry leaders, and international partners to position vocational training as a cornerstone of Côte d’Ivoire’s economic transformation and job creation strategy.
The two-day event, held under the high patronage of Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, is organized by the National Agency for Vocational Training (AGEFOP) in partnership with the Ministry of Employment, Social Protection, and Vocational Training. This year’s theme, ‘Skills, Employment, and Economic Transformation in Africa: The Strategic Role of Vocational Training,’ reflects a bold vision to align workforce competencies with the evolving demands of the national and regional economies.
Vocational training at the heart of Côte d’Ivoire’s development agenda
The forum arrives at a pivotal moment, following the recent integration of vocational training under the Ministry of Employment—a reform designed to create a cohesive public policy framework that bridges skills development, decent employment, and worker protection. This strategic shift, championed by President Alassane Ouattara and driven by Minister Adama Kamara, is anchored in the 2026–2030 National Development Plan (PND), which identifies human capital as the driving force behind structural economic change.
With over $80 billion in international funding pledged to support the PND, the development of a skilled workforce has emerged as indispensable to turning these investments into sustainable growth, inclusive employment opportunities, and shared prosperity. The FIMEC aims to catalyze this vision by fostering dialogue between policymakers, technical partners, financiers, and private sector stakeholders.
A dynamic agenda for a changing job market
Over the next 48 hours, participants will engage in high-level panels, hands-on workshops, technical demonstrations, and networking sessions designed to tackle pressing challenges. Key discussions will revolve around the impact of artificial intelligence, digital transformation, green skills, and soft skills on the future of work. Attendees will also explore strategies to future-proof careers, ensuring that workers, youth, and businesses remain agile in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
The forum will also spotlight success stories of individuals whose careers have been transformed through vocational training, highlighting its role in boosting employability, fostering entrepreneurship, and closing the skills gap between job seekers and industry needs.
From policy debates to practical skill-building, the FIMEC 2026 stands as a testament to Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment to building a workforce that drives innovation, resilience, and economic progress.
