At the opening of the second edition of the International Forum on Trades and Skills (FIMEC 2026), the Ivorian Prime Minister, Robert Beugré Mambé, strongly advocated for skills development to become the central lever for prosperity, economic sovereignty and competitiveness in Côte d'Ivoire.

Placed under the theme "Skills, Employment and Economic Transformation in Africa: the strategic role of Vocational Training" , this edition was an opportunity for the Head of Government to reaffirm the State's commitment to placing human capital at the center of national development.

Meeting the challenges of the modern labor market

Faced with current technological, economic and demographic changes, Robert Beugré Mambé reminded everyone that the strength of a nation now lies in its ability to educate its population.

"The competitiveness of states depends on their ability to prepare young people for the jobs of today and tomorrow," he insisted.

This vision is reflected in ambitious reforms undertaken by the Ivorian government to:

1. Modernize the vocational training system.
2. To sustainably strengthen the employability of young people.
3. Supporting the transformation of the national production system.

A shared vision across Africa

Beyond Ivory Coast's borders, the Prime Minister called for increased continental solidarity. According to him, the challenges shared by African countries necessitate the pooling of best practices, regular exchanges of experience, and the establishment of lasting partnerships.

He urged all stakeholders (decision-makers, businesses, experts and young people) to mobilize to build a more innovative, inclusive and job-creating economy.

Welcoming the popular success of the event, the Head of Government concluded by expressing his expectations for the forum's conclusions, which should lead to concrete recommendations to accelerate the modernization of educational and professional systems.

About FIMEC: Organized by the National Agency for Vocational Training ( AGEFOP ), FIMEC has established itself as a strategic platform for exchange in Africa. Its main objective remains the perfect match between youth training and the real needs of the job market.