$31 Million Agreement Between IsDB, Government of Cote D’Ivoire to Create Jobs for Youth

Dr. Bandar Hajjar, shakes hands with Finance Minister Adama Kone.

Abidjan, 20 Shawwal 1438/14 July 2017 (MINA) – A financing agreement worth US$31 million signed between the Islamic Development Bank, IsDB, and the Government of Cote D’Ivoire, will create thousands of jobs and provide vocational training to the youth, WAM reported.

Dr. Bandar Hajjar, signed the agreement on behalf of IsDB while Cote D’Ivoire was represented by Finance Minister Adama Kone. The signing ceremony took place in the capital, Abidjan. The beneficiaries will be taught entrepreneurial skills, particularly in agricultural trade, in addition to receiving traditional vocational training.

The project involves the construction of 42 classes, 32 specialised classes, and four big laboratories. The project will be implemented in Agboville, Bonua, Dabou and Dimbokro. By 2024, 774 students will graduate from the training centres each year.

“I congratulate Cote D’Ivoire for signing this agreement, which would help create jobs for the youth. This is part of social economic development. IsDB is committed to supporting its member countries. I hope that this project will become one of the success stories in Cote D’Ivoire, and hopefully it would inspire other IsDB member countries to do the same,” Dr. Hajjar said.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Kone said, “This agreement is very important for the government. It is in line with the strategic vision of the president. Youth are important for the society. The vision of the head of state to transform Cote D’Ivoire into an emerging economy cannot happen without the youth.”

He added that an important pillar in the vision of his government is ensuring economic transformation. He called on IsDB to continue supporting Cote D’Ivoire, adding that the presence of six ministers during the signing ceremony shows how important the project is for the country. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)