Alternative financing for vocational training in Senegal (By Amédine SALL, Expert in vocational training, employment and skills development)

In Senegal, vocational training has become a key lever for addressing youth unemployment and supporting economic transformation. Progress was made between 2015 and 2023 in increasing the number of vocational training participants. The National Transformation Agenda "Senegal 2050" aims for 30% of young people over the age of 15 to be enrolled in dual vocational education programs by 2023. This momentum is supported by a structured financing system centered around the Vocational and Technical Training Financing Fund (3FPT), which is funded by the state budget, technical and financial partners, and contributions from businesses, notably through a payroll tax similar to a business training contribution (CFE).

But behind this structure, a central question remains: are the resources mobilized being fully used for vocational training? As things stand, the answer is nuanced. Companies' contributions are not entirely allocated to training, as a portion is absorbed by the general budget or other public priorities. This situation limits the transparency of the system and undermines the confidence of economic stakeholders. In this context, a structural reform is essential: making the full allocation of the CFE (Business Property Tax) mandatory. to the financing of vocational training . Such a measure would secure resources, strengthen transparency, and send a strong signal to businesses by guaranteeing that their contribution directly finances skills development. This development would bring Senegal closer to international standards.

In France, for example, company contributions are legally earmarked for training and redistributed by France Compétences according to specific rules. In Germany, companies directly finance training within the dual system, ensuring a strong match between skills and market needs. In Singapore, funding is strategically directed towards future-oriented sectors. These experiences show that effective financing rests on three principles: clear resource allocation, strong private sector involvement, and results-oriented management. Beyond the full allocation of the CFE (Business Property Tax), other levers can strengthen the system's effectiveness. The 3FPT (Vocational Training Fund for Public Sector Employees) could evolve into a true strategic fund, jointly managed with companies. The introduction of training vouchers would empower beneficiaries and stimulate the quality of training offered. Tax incentives could encourage companies to invest more in training, particularly in high-growth sectors. Furthermore, the allocation of funds would benefit from being more performance- oriented , with a portion of funding contingent on results , particularly in terms of job placement . The implementation of a digital monitoring platform would, in turn, strengthen transparency and accountability. Reforming vocational training funding does not mean abandoning existing practices, but rather consolidating them. Senegal now has a solid foundation. The challenge now is to take a decisive step: moving from a system focused on resources to one based on impact. Ultimately, it is not simply a matter of mobilizing resources, but of ensuring that every contribution, especially that of businesses, is fully dedicated to developing the skills upon which the country's future depends.