This paper evaluates the responses from 13 of the 17 vocational training funds in Africa, focusing on their roles, methodologies, and future directions. The analysis covers data from a seminar in Abidjan in December 2015, involving 11 members of the African Network of Vocational Training Funds (RAFPRO) and two non-members from Mauritania and Mauritius.

It categorizes training funds based on their missions: continuing vocational training, pre-employment training, and promoting equity for disadvantaged groups. The synthesis identifies three primary types of funds: those focused on training employees in large companies, those targeting small and informal businesses, and those balancing support between employees, the self-employed, and jobseekers.

The paper discusses challenges in pre-employment training, noting its underdevelopment, with very little training, and the need for more effective apprenticeships. It calls for increased autonomy for the funds, particularly in resource allocation, enhanced staff capacity, and stronger partnerships with national stakeholders. It also emphasizes the importance of aligning the funds' activities with national vocational training policies and ensuring their long-term financial stability through direct tax allocations.

The paper concludes by recommending better strategic planning, improved internal management, and enhanced cooperation among funds.