Dakar: The Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation has inaugurated the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Institute for Vocational Education in Senegal, marking a significant step towards enhancing vocational and technical education in the region. The opening ceremony was attended by Ousmane Sonko, the Prime Minister of Senegal, highlighting the importance of the initiative.
According to Emirates News Agency, this project is part of ongoing efforts to empower youth by providing them with opportunities to pursue vocational education and launch private business ventures. The institute is designed to prepare qualified national cadres who can meet labour market demands and support sustainable development in Senegal.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Prime Minister emphasized the crucial role of vocational education in empowering youth and fostering comprehensive development. He expressed gratitude to the UAE and the Khalifa Foundation for their contribution to building the capacities of future generations through this initiative.
Mohammed Haji Al Khouri, Director-General of the Khalifa Foundation, highlighted that the institute symbolizes the strong relationship between the UAE and Senegal. It reflects the UAE's commitment to supporting youth empowerment and enabling them to contribute actively to their communities' development and prosperity.
The institute offers a variety of vocational and technical specialisations aligned with the demands of the labour market. These include automotive mechanics, refrigeration and air conditioning, accounting and management, computer science, industrial computing, and networking. With a capacity of approximately 1,000 students, the institute is poised to play a crucial role in training young people with the necessary skills to drive economic and social development in Senegal.
The establishment of the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Institute is part of the Khalifa Foundation's broader humanitarian and development initiatives, underscoring the UAE's dedication to supporting education as a key pillar of economic and social development in partner countries.