Côte d’Ivoire. Supporting education.

Côte d’Ivoire. Young people make up thirty percent of the population of Côte d’Ivoire. Poverty and a high youth unemployment rate have created obstacles for many young people. They lack access to education as well as opportunities to develop the vocational skills in demand on the labor market. At the same time, plastic pollution is a major problem in Côte d’Ivoire.

Through the Yoma initiative, launched by UNICEF in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and other partners, Côte d’Ivoire is confronting these challenges. The initiative, started in June of 2023, offers young people the opportunity to learn marketable skills to increase their chances on the labor market. One particular focus is on green and blue economy industries that promote the sustainable use of natural resources. Participants can also get involved in social and ecological causes.

Over the Yoma digital platform, young people get access to seminars and workshops to help them improve their skills in sustainable entrepreneurship. They can choose from courses including sustainable development, project and corporate management, financial management and marketing. They receive support from a network of corporate partners to apply the skills they have learned and gain work experience. Young people can use videos to showcase their social engagement on the digital platform, helping them form connections and enjoy exchanges with like-minded people. In-person events like hackathons and conferences are held to further promote the exchange of ideas. Young entrepreneurs can meet peers, present their business ideas and request start-up funding.

Over 400 young people in Côte d’Ivoire have taken advantage of the program since it was launched. It has helped over 40 participants develop new and sustainable business ideas. The five best ideas are now undergoing further development in a six-month incubation program.