Benin‘s Job Fair Connects Thousands of Young People with Employment
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Lokossa, benin – In a significant boost for youth employment in Benin, the 6th annual employment and Skills Fair (SALEC) concluded on December 13, 2024, connecting thousands of young job seekers with potential employers. Held at the Lokossa municipal stadium during the National Employment Fortnight, the event drew a large crowd and offered a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
The fair, themed “Difficult professional integration of young people in Benin: diagnosis and solution methods by employers,” brought together a diverse group of stakeholders. Attendees included the Mayor of Lokossa, Minister of small and Medium Enterprises and Employment Promotion Modeste Tihounté KÉRÉKOU, Director General of the National Employment Agency Urbain AMÉGBÉDJI, and members of the Mono Regional Administrative Conference. The sheer number of attendees underscored the critical need for job creation and the significant impact of this initiative.
Over 35 companies participated, offering more than 2,590 immediate job openings. These companies engaged with nearly 5,000 skilled individuals across various sectors. The scale of the event is remarkable, highlighting the government’s proactive approach too addressing youth unemployment.
“Today in Lokossa, 2,590 people will find work.We cannot continue to say that President Patrice TALON is not doing anything. I would like to express my gratitude for attending this event. I would like to thank all the companies that share with us this noble goal of finding work for young people and that have helped us carry out this activity for six years. without business, without work. SALEC is the main activity that closes the National Employment Fortnight. After six years, we understand the importance of this instrument that SALEC has in the mission, in matching offers between employers and job seekers,”
—Urbain AMÉGBÉDJI, Director General of the National Employment agency
The Prefect of the Mono region, Dêdêgnon Bienvenu MILOHIN, emphasized the Beninese government’s commitment to prioritizing youth employment and entrepreneurship. He expressed gratitude to President Patrice TALON and the Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises for their leadership in this crucial area. This commitment mirrors similar efforts in the U.S. to address youth unemployment through job training programs and initiatives supporting small businesses.
Minister KÉRÉKOU acknowledged the ongoing challenge of youth unemployment and underemployment, despite government efforts. He highlighted the National Employment Agency’s crucial role in connecting job seekers with available positions. The Minister’s remarks underscore the complexity of the issue and the need for continued collaboration between government and the private sector.
The success of the 6th SALEC offers a promising outlook for Benin’s youth and demonstrates the government’s dedication to creating a more equitable and prosperous future. The event serves as a model for other nations grappling with similar challenges,offering a tangible example of how targeted initiatives can make a real difference in the lives of young people.
Benin’s Job Fair Provides Hope for Thousands of Young People
Thousands of young people in Benin found renewed hope for the future at the recent 6th annual SALEC job fair. held in Lokossa,this event connected a massive number of job seekers with over 35 participating companies offering immediate employment opportunities. this positive step shines a light on Benin’s dedication to tackling youth unemployment and offers a promising example for countries worldwide.
A Beacon of Hope in Lokossa
World-Today-News Senior Editor: Dr. Adjovi, you recently attended the 6th annual SALEC job fair in Lokossa. What was your overall impression of the event and its impact on the community?
Dr. Sylvain Adjovi, West African Economic Progress Specialist: the atmosphere at SALEC was electric. You could feel the palpable hope and determination in the air as thousands of young Beninese job seekers eagerly connected with potential employers. This event wasn’t just about finding jobs; it was a powerful symbol of opportunity – a clear statement that Benin is actively investing in its youth and their future.
Connecting Job Seekers with Employers
WTN: The event saw a remarkable turnout of companies offering thousands of job openings. Can you elaborate on the types of industries represented and the skills they were seeking?
Dr. Adjovi: The diversity of companies at SALEC was extraordinary. We saw representation from sectors like agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and tourism. They were looking for individuals with a wide range of skill sets, from technical expertise to soft skills like communication and teamwork. This breadth of opportunities demonstrates the growing economic dynamism in Benin.
Government Commitment and Collaboration
WTN: The Beninese government played a crucial role in organizing this event. How notable was their involvement, and what message does it send about their priorities?
Dr. Adjovi: The government’s commitment to SALEC is undeniably vital. Their active leadership and collaboration with the private sector underscore the seriousness with wich they are approaching youth unemployment. This event sends a strong message: investing in their young population is a top priority for the Beninese government.
Challenges and Long-Term Solutions
WTN: While SALEC is a commendable initiative, youth unemployment remains a challenge in Benin. What are some of the long-term solutions needed to ensure sustained success?
dr. Adjovi:
SALEC is an excellent starting point, but addressing youth unemployment requires a multi-pronged approach. It involves continued investment in education and vocational training programs to equip young people with the necessary skills. It also requires fostering an surroundings that encourages entrepreneurship and small business development, which can create even more job opportunities.
