Dakar employment forum sparks hope for youth amid national urgency

Monday 21 July 2025 - 10:00

In the heart of Dakar, the Grand Théâtre transformed on Saturday, July 19, into a hub of aspirations and opportunity. The venue hosted the Employment and Entrepreneurship Forum, an event designed to connect young jobseekers, business leaders, and investors in a country where nearly 75% of the population is under the age of 35.

Faced with persistently high unemployment rates, the forum aimed to tackle one of Senegal’s most pressing social challenges: youth joblessness. “This forum helps bridge the gap between young people and the job market,” said Mouhamadou Racine Seck, co-founder of Sénégal Jobs and coordinator of the event. “Many young people don't get the chance to meet companies directly. This platform gives them access to internships, job interviews, or even their first real employment opportunity.”

The atmosphere was vibrant. Young graduates arrived with resumes in hand, while others came seeking investment or mentorship for their business projects. Parents also participated, eager to support their children.

“I came with my daughter who just passed her high school exams. But I’ve also learned a lot myself. The quality of discussions and advice has been impressive,” shared Alioune Ndiaye, a father attending the forum.

Organizers urged state institutions to provide stronger backing for such initiatives. “While we’re not waiting for everything to come from the government, the message is clear: public support is essential. Companies are ready to recruit; young people are ready to work. What’s missing is a structure to connect them efficiently,” Seck emphasized.

This event aligns with national efforts to promote youth employment. Recently, the Senegalese government and business federations signed agreements to integrate 3,500 young people into the workforce by the end of 2025.