By Fatou Krubally
Young people have been encouraged to acquire practical skills and embrace entrepreneurship as a pathway to self-employment and economic empowerment during the launch of a bakery and pastry training programme organised by Boulangers Sans Frontières.
The four-day training, which began on 2 June, is being held under the theme “Engaging and Empowering the Next Generation Through Skills and Development.” Participants are receiving hands-on training in bread making, cake production, dessert preparation, dough improvement techniques and shaping methods.
Speaking at the opening, organisers said the initiative aims to equip young people with practical skills while promoting self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
They noted that the programme builds on a similar training conducted last year, during which 60 young people were trained in bakery and pastry production. Some beneficiaries of the previous training are reportedly applying their skills to generate income, with ongoing mentorship support.
An international partner of the initiative, Mr. Lawrence, said he has maintained a long-standing relationship with The Gambia through development programmes and remains committed to supporting youth empowerment.
He expressed confidence in young people’s potential to drive innovation and economic change when given access to opportunities.
Assan Colley, President of Boulangers Sans Frontières in The Gambia, said the organisation’s goal is to empower youth through practical training that enables self-employment.
“Skills are the new currency,” he said, adding that bakery and pastry production can serve as a sustainable source of income and job creation.
He said the organisation plans to expand its training programmes to reach more young people across the country.
Assan Ndimbalan of the International Trade Centre (ITC) urged participants to take the training seriously, noting that practical skills are increasingly valued in the labour market.
He said employers are now more focused on what individuals can do rather than academic qualifications alone, and highlighted ITC’s continued support for youth entrepreneurship and start-up development.
Binta Bah of the National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority (NAQAA) also encouraged participants to maximise the opportunity, describing skills training as essential for youth development and future employability.
She added that digital platforms now provide additional opportunities for skilled entrepreneurs to market their products and services.
A beneficiary of last year’s training, Ebrima Drammeh, shared his experience, saying the programme boosted his confidence and strengthened his career ambitions in the hospitality sector.
Organisers expressed optimism that the training would equip participants with practical skills and encourage them to pursue entrepreneurship and job creation in their communities.