• Centres focus on key sectors like tech, textiles, and food processing
• Aim is to cut 29.7% youth unemployment and align skills with jobs

Algeria on Wednesday launched a national network of 18 centres of excellence aimed at boosting skills development and innovation as authorities seek to ease the integration of young graduates into the labour market.

The centres will operate in a range of priority sectors, including food processing, textiles, digital technology and mechanics, and are intended to strengthen links between training institutions, industry and employment.

Seddik Koudil, secretary general at the Ministry of Vocational Education and Training, said the centres have been given priority in terms of equipment and training programmes, built around an innovative teaching model and close partnerships with companies.

The goal, he said, is to ensure a smooth transition from training to employment while expanding access to high-quality vocational education that offers clear career prospects for young people. Koudil added that the government aims to turn the centres into integrated platforms capable of delivering skills aligned with labour-market needs and fostering innovation.

The launch comes as youth unemployment remains high in Algeria. In 2024, the jobless rate among people aged 15 to 24 stood at nearly 29.7%, well above the global average, despite a slight decline, according to data from TheGlobalEconomy. World Bank data show that in the same year, around 20% of Algerians in that age group were not in employment, education or training.

Félicien Houindo Lokossou