The International Labour Organization (ILO) joined a regional gathering of over 400 participants, including TVET experts, youth leaders and employers, at the 2025 Conference of the African Technical Universities and Polytechnics Association (ATUPA) held from 25 to 28 August.

As part of its ongoing collaboration with the African Union Development Agency–NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) under the Skills Initiative for Africa (SIFA) and the African Skills Revolution campaign, the ILO co-facilitated a session on youth engagement in TVET. The session emphasized the importance of going beyond consultation to ensure meaningful participation of young people in shaping skills systems.

"What made this session inspiring was seeing young people not only consulted, but actively involved as contributors, partners and leaders," said Baye Sambou of the ILO. "Their insights will directly inform our forthcoming joint ILO/AUDA-NEPAD guide: From Aspirations to Action: A Practical Guide to Youth Engagement in TVET."

The ILO's Africa Skills Hub further contributed to the plenary debates, including a keynote on sustainable TVET models and participation in a high-level panel on policy and governance. Panellists included representatives from UNISA, the African Union Commission, India, China, and African employer organizations.

Among the conference's highlights were four thematic breakout sessions on:

bridging the industry–skills gap;

promoting inclusive TVET education;

advancing environmental sustainability;

and fostering youth entrepreneurship and digital skills.

From more than 300 submissions, 114 peer-reviewed research papers were presented, including an ILO paper focusing on disability inclusion in African TVET systems, backed by recent labour market data.

In line with the ILO's commitment to inclusive skills development, the paper emphasized strategies to remove barriers faced by persons with disabilities and called for strengthened data systems and targeted policies.

Young people also played a leading role in the event's Innovation Challenge. One of those participating in the exhibition shared her compelling perspective on inclusive education: "My TVET course has equipped me with knowledge and skills I now apply to benefit my community. This is sustainable development."

Under the theme "Empowering Africa through TVET: Driving Sustainable Development, Youth Empowerment, and Economic Integration in the Era of Industry 4.0", the conference served as a dual platform for ATUPA's Annual Conference and its 7th African Youth Forum. The event brought together technical and vocational education and training (TVET) practitioners from more than 20 African countries, alongside 100 young people and institutional partners.

Recognizing the role of TVET as a catalyst for sustainable development and inclusive economic growth in Africa, the ILO contributed to key sessions that highlighted the need for responsive skills development systems. "This year's forum reflects the growing momentum for TVET transformation in Africa, powered by young people's voices and partnerships across sectors," said Dr Jahou Samba Faal, ATUPA Secretary General.