Preparing Gabon's Youth for the Future

At 27, Josserane hadn't expected to work in web development. After facing a tough education journey and long periods of uncertainty about his career path, he nearly gave up on his dreams. Now, though, he's skilled in databases, mobile apps, and entrepreneurship-abilities he gained at the newly founded Centre for Vocational Training and Education in Information and Communication Technology Professions (CFEP-MTIC) in Nkok.

Josserane is part of a new generation of Gabonese youth gaining valuable, job-ready skills, thanks to the World Bank-supported Skills Development and Employability Project (PRODECE). Even though PRODECE officially concluded in 2023, its positive effects are already visible. New centers such as CFEP-MTIC, launched in 2024, keep equipping young people with the knowledge and abilities essential for success in today's rapidly evolving workforce.

Tackling Youth Unemployment by Developing Skills

Youth unemployment remains a major issue in Gabon, with more than one-third of people aged 15 to 24 unemployed. As Gabon works to diversify its economy beyond oil, there is growing demand for skilled workers in sectors such as construction, wood processing, renewable energy, and information and communication technologies (ICT).

Until recently, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs were limited in scope, outdated, and did not align with labor market needs-especially for young women. In response, the Gabonese government, supported by the World Bank, launched PRODECE in 2016 to modernize skills training and create stronger links between education and job opportunities.

Industry-Focused Training

An important milestone in this initiative was achieved in January 2024 with the inauguration of two sectoral training centers within the Nkok Special Economic Zone, a prominent industrial hub near Libreville:

• CFEP-MB-BTP, specializing in construction, woodwork, and public works
• CFEP-MTIC, dedicated to digital and ICT-related professions

Situated within an active industrial ecosystem, these centers provide students with practical training, internships, apprenticeships, and direct engagement with private sector employers. The programs encompass disciplines such as carpentry, civil engineering, renewable energy technologies, and full-stack web development.

"Before, I could only build basic websites," says Rolly, 26, a student at CFEP-MTIC. "Now I can make them dynamic and connect them to databases. This training is my bridge to independence and entrepreneurship."

A Second Chance to Succeed

For numerous students, the training provides more than just technical expertise-it instills a revitalized sense of direction. Josserane, who departed university prior to completing a degree, characterizes the center as a pivotal moment in their development.

"I needed something concrete," he says. "Here, I learned how to code and develop applications. This center gave me confidence and a second chance."

The trainers also support this vision. Marvel, who leads communications at CFEP-MTIC, says the objective is more than just teaching technical skills.

"We are not just training technicians," he explains. "We are shaping young people who can adapt, innovate, and actively contribute to the digital world."

Measurable Outcomes and Enduring Value

Between 2016 and 2023, PRODECE impacted more than 8,400 young people-almost half of whom were women. The program delivered significant results:

• Built and equipped two modern training centers in Nkok SEZ
• Modernized 49 training programs with private sector partners
• Trained 7,000+ youth via internships and apprenticeships
• Created 260 youth-led businesses, 60% led by women
• Rehabilitated and equipped training institutions nationwide
• Established a national certification framework for standardized competencies

Although the results differ across sectors, these investments have notably enhanced access to high-quality training and reinforced routes toward employment and entrepreneurship. Numerous graduates indicate improved self-assurance and more defined career prospects.

Investing in People, Investing in the Future

Backed by $66 million from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), PRODECE demonstrates Gabon's dedication to building up its human capital. This initiative also carried important institutional reforms, such as establishing the National Agency for Technical and Vocational Education (ANETFP) and strengthening the National Employment Office (ONE/PNPE), which led to better sector coordination and governance.

Currently, the Nkok training centers follow a public-private partnership model that aims for both sustainability and real-world relevance. The government is looking to expand this strategy across the country, focusing especially on encouraging more women to participate in technical fields that have historically been male dominated.

"This center gave me skills-and hope," Josserane says with a smile.

Gabon is building a stronger, more inclusive economy by investing in its young people-an approach that helps develop new skills, create job opportunities, and inspire hope for the future.