The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development in Africa with the inauguration of the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Institute for Vocational Education in Senegal.
The institute was officially opened in Dakar in the presence of Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, marking a significant milestone in UAE–Senegal cooperation.
Established by the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, the institute forms part of the UAE’s broader humanitarian and development initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality education and strengthening local capacities in partner countries. The project reflects a strategic focus on vocational and technical education as a driver of inclusive economic growth.
Empowering Youth Through Skills and Opportunity
The new institute is designed to provide advanced vocational training aligned with the needs of Senegal’s labour market. Its curriculum includes specialisations such as automotive mechanics, refrigeration and air conditioning, accounting and management, computer science, industrial computing, and networking, equipping students with practical and market-relevant skills.
With a capacity of approximately 1,000 students, the institute is expected to play a key role in preparing a new generation of skilled professionals capable of contributing to Senegal’s economic and social development, while also supporting youth entrepreneurship and private-sector engagement.
High-Level Recognition of Vocational Education
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko highlighted the central role of vocational education in empowering young people and achieving comprehensive national development. He expressed deep appreciation to the UAE and the Khalifa Foundation for their support, noting that the institute represents a meaningful investment in Senegal’s future generations.
For his part, Mohammed Haji Al Khouri, Director-General of the Khalifa Foundation, emphasized that the project reflects the strong fraternal relations between the UAE and Senegal. He underlined the UAE’s firm belief that youth empowerment and education are essential foundations for long-term stability and prosperity.
A Broader Vision of Development Cooperation
The Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Institute is part of a wider portfolio of educational and humanitarian projects supported by the UAE across Africa and beyond. By prioritizing skills development and employability, the initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of sustainable, locally driven development rooted in partnership rather than dependency.
The inauguration of the institute stands as a tangible symbol of UAE–Senegal cooperation and a shared commitment to building resilient societies through education, opportunity, and investment in human capital.
