Dakar,Senegal – The Senegalese government is making a concerted push to address youth unemployment,a challenge facing many African nations,with new policies slated for implementation before the close of 2025. Recognizing that over 60% of Senegal’s population is under the age of 25, according to recent UN data, the President has directed a comprehensive overhaul of national employment strategies [[1]]. This initiative aims to equip a growing workforce with the skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving job market adn bolster the west African nation’s economic stability[[2]].
Senegal’s President has prioritized youth employment, directing his government to accelerate the development of a national employment policy and overhaul vocational training programs, officials announced this week.
The President underscored the urgency of creating opportunities for young Senegalese citizens during a recent cabinet meeting, according to a government statement. He instructed the Prime Minister to finalize the new National Employment Policy document before the end of December 2025.
The policy aims to streamline government efforts and develop innovative solutions tailored to the current job market. A key component will be a significant transformation of the country’s professional and technical training system, with a focus on expanding dual-training programs that combine classroom learning with apprenticeships.
The President also called for increased support for the Professional and Technical Training Funding Fund (3FPT) to assist both job seekers and businesses. Plans include building and staffing professional training centers in every department across Senegal, ensuring equitable access to skills development.
To improve coordination, the government will work to consolidate existing youth employment initiatives into a new, more cohesive National Youth Employment Promotion Program. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to a unified approach to addressing youth unemployment.
The President further emphasized the importance of engaging young people directly in policy decisions, instructing officials to establish the Senegalese Youth Advisory Council and to maintain regular meetings of the National Council for Youth Insertion and Employment. These bodies will serve as key forums for consultation and participation.
Looking ahead, the President announced that 2026 will be dedicated to promoting employment and developing the social and solidarity economy, a sector seen as having strong potential for creating sustainable jobs and supporting community-led initiatives. The case highlights the government’s belief in the power of local entrepreneurship.
