• Dual apprenticeships blend classroom training and workplace practice to meet labor needs

• Programs vary in duration and offer benefits for employers and job seekers alike

• ILO says model can ease Africa’s youth unemployment and build a skilled workforce

Dual apprenticeship, as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO), is a training model that combines classroom instruction with practical experience in the workplace. It equips young people with skills that reflect the real demands of the labor market by linking theory with hands-on learning.

The length and structure of these programs vary by country, ranging from a few weeks to a full year. In some cases, participants are hired under formal apprenticeship contracts and receive pay.

The model also offers clear benefits for companies and the wider economy. Employers help train young workers in skills that match industry needs, improving recruitment. Learners gain practical experience before graduating, which strengthens their job prospects.

Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue in many African countries. According to the ILO’s Global Employment Trends for Youth 2024 report, the unemployment rate among 15-24-year-olds in sub-Saharan Africa is estimated at 8.9 percent. In parts of North Africa, the U.N. Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) reports rates above 30 percent in 2024.

Against this backdrop, the ILO views dual apprenticeship systems as a strategic tool for the region. The organization says they can equip young people with in-demand skills, help bridge the gap between training and employment, and build a skilled workforce capable of supporting long-term economic and social development across the continent.

Félicien Houindo Lokossou