From May 11 to 15, 2026, Dakar became the African capital of educational innovation. By hosting the 7th General Assembly of the African Network of Vocational Training Institutions and Funds (RAFPRO), Senegal brought together delegations from 12 member countries around a crucial issue: "Artificial intelligence and vocational training: issues and challenges regarding skills, employability and business competitiveness".

For RAFPRO, the objective is clear: to harmonize efforts and pool resources so that AI is not something to be endured, but becomes a lever for growth for African youth.

At the opening ceremony, which showcased the rich Lebou culture, the Minister of Employment and Vocational Training, Amadou Moustapha Ndieck Sarre, emphasized the need to place human capital at the heart of development strategies. According to him, technical training is the "essential lever" for transforming the continent's economies. He called for increased cooperation among African countries to adapt funding to new technological realities, asserting that Africa's competitiveness will depend on its ability to train skilled professionals to navigate the digital revolution.

Anticipate so you don't get replaced

The president of RAFPRO, Dr. Philippe N'dri, emphasized that this work follows on from the discussions initiated in Abidjan. The aim is to develop practical solutions to prevent any disconnect between training and the actual needs of businesses. Discussions focused on adapting professional standards and training trainers. One of the key messages of this meeting was the reminder that AI will not replace humans, but will "only eliminate those who lack AI skills" or who do not know how to use it where it is needed.

On the technical front, Lamine Bara Lo, director of the National Training Office (ONF), advocated for the concrete integration of AI into training programs, particularly through the adaptation of educational content. Pilot projects, already underway in countries such as Senegal, Mali, and Côte d'Ivoire, will serve as the basis for a strengthened regional strategy. In closing the discussions, participants defined an action plan focused on innovation, governance, and digital security. The collective ambition is to transform African artisans, laborers, and workers into informed actors in the technological age, capable of seizing all the opportunities offered by digitalization.