Colombia: Increase the employability of young people

Colombia is the third largest economy in South America and a country characterised by contrasts. A stable democracy, dynamic economic growth and a high level of education contrast with organised crime, corruption and social inequality. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a serious impact on the economy and the labour market. The tourism sector has been particularly affected. In addition, the number of full-time jobs in the country has fallen by almost a fifth. In the national education plan, the Ministry of Education has focused on improving quality and equal participation in education. It attaches great importance to practice-oriented training, which should make it easier for young people to enter the job market. Due to their economic importance, politicians see a high demand for qualifications in the tourism and digital economy sectors.

The AFOS Foundation's vocational training partnership (BBP), which is already in its second phase and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development in the context of Partners in Transformation, is contributing to Colombia's efforts to strengthen vocational training in the digital, agricultural, food, tourism and digital economy sectors through greater practical relevance. Strong partners have been found in the Chamber of Commerce in Medellín CCM and the national vocational training service SENA in order to be able to implement dual vocational training independently and to expand the range of dual vocational training on offer thematically and regionally, also with a view to promoting women. The focus is on the Antioquia region.