There’s a distinct feeling that 2025 will be a remarkable year. My objectives are clear: expanding Yoonu Xeey’s impact in Senegal’s informal sector, strengthening TVET initiatives, and building successful cross-continental partnerships.
Expanding Yoonu Xeey’s Impact
Yoonu Xeey has been instrumental in empowering workers in Senegal’s informal economy, which employs approximately 86% of the country’s workforce [1]. Our focus is on providing skills training, financial literacy programs, and access to micro-finance. By expanding our programs, we aim to reach more individuals, particularly women and youth, who represent a significant portion of the informal sector [2].
Strengthening TVET Initiatives
Strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is crucial for addressing unemployment and underemployment. In Senegal, youth unemployment remains high at around 14% [3]. By enhancing TVET programs, we can equip young people with the skills needed in the labor market. This includes modernizing curricula, improving training facilities, and fostering partnerships with industries to ensure relevance.
Building Cross-Continental Partnerships
Building successful cross-continental partnerships is essential for knowledge exchange and resource sharing. Collaborations with institutions in Finland and other countries have already shown positive results. For instance, Finnish expertise in education technology can greatly benefit African education systems [4]. These partnerships help in introducing innovative solutions and best practices that can be adapted to local contexts.
Advancing PhD Research and Contributing to Education Systems
I’m also looking forward to making significant progress in my PhD research. My work focuses on integrating technology into education to improve learning outcomes. Combining academic research with practical implementation creates powerful opportunities for sustainable development in African education.
By working closely with educators, policymakers, and communities, we can develop strategies that are both effective and sustainable. Education is a key driver of development, and improving education systems has a ripple effect on economic growth and social well-being.
Conclusion
The combination of academic research and practical initiatives positions 2025 as a year of impactful progress. By expanding Yoonu Xeey’s programs, strengthening TVET, and fostering international partnerships, we aim to contribute significantly to sustainable development in Africa. I’m excited about the possibilities and committed to working towards these goals.
[1] International Labour Organization. (2023). Informal Economy in Senegal. Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/employment-promotion/informal-economy/lang–en/index.htm
[2] World Bank. (2022). Senegal Gender Assessment. Retrieved from https://documents.worldbank.org/en/publication/documents-reports/documentdetail/674071548285639516/senegal-gender-assessment
[3] African Development Bank. (2023). African Economic Outlook. Retrieved from https://www.afdb.org/en/knowledge/publications/african-economic-outlook
[4] Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland. (2024). Finland’s Africa Strategy. Retrieved from https://um.fi/finland-s-africa-strategy
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