Upgrading Labour Market Information Capacity in French-speaking Africa, Especially Through Training Programmes and Exchange of Experience (pilot Phase); Report on the Regional Evaluation Meeting, Abidjan, 10-11 February 1986

Book excerpt: Senior African Labour Ministry officials, CILSS, DANIDA, and ILO representatives evaluate 1st stage of 5-year programme to improve labour market data collection in French-speaking Africa, particularly in urban and rural informal sectors. Project's immediate objective is to increase expertise of govt. employment and manpower information staff, and facilitate regional exchange of experience. Describes 2-year pilot projects in Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania and Rwanda, comprising training courses and study abroad for medium-level and senior African officials. Finds success demonstrated by speedy completion of activities, promotion of trained staff, authorities' improved awareness of their information needs, and interest shown by other countries. RECOMMENDS: overseas study be longer and restricted to economics graduates; preparatory missions for external consultants; and orienting refresher courses and training guides towards African needs (country reports appended).