Ivory Coast: A new vocational training center strengthens women's empowerment in Tengrela
The Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles have inaugurated a new vocational training center aimed at strengthening the empowerment of women in Tengrela, Ivory Coast.
The ceremony, organized on January 18, 2026 as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the congregation's presence in the locality, brought together several ecclesiastical authorities, including priests and sisters.
Speaking at the event, the provincial leader of the NDA Sisters, Sister Amélie Yapo, revisited the origin of the initiative.
As the Ivorian Press Agency (AIP) explains, the Sisters recalled that during community visits in December 2021, they identified an urgent need for a space where young girls and women could acquire essential skills, continuing the mission begun by the congregation fifty years ago. This observation led to the revitalization and expansion of the Notre Dame des Apôtres Women's Center, which is now fully modernized and operational.
A growing demand for skills training
The center began operations in October 2022 with only 12 women, due to the cramped conditions of the previous premises. However, the students' enthusiasm and the extent of local needs quickly highlighted the necessity of a larger space. "Every day, we see in these young women's eyes an immense thirst for learning. Some travel several kilometers to attend classes," Sister Amélie emphasized, praising their determination.
Thanks to the support of benefactors, a new, modern training center has been built. It can now accommodate up to 30 learners per class and offers various programs, including cooking, baking, sewing, literacy, and financial management.
Ambitious goals for women's autonomy
The project aims to train 90 young women:
• 30 in sewing over a three-year cycle
• 60 in cooking and pastry over a six-month cycle
Every three years, the center plans to award 90 women professional certificates and support them in finding employment or creating income-generating activities. As one of the first initiatives of its kind in the department of Tengrela, the program aims to improve living conditions, promote women's empowerment, and contribute to poverty reduction. "This project is a true beacon of hope," Sister Amélie stated.
A call for registration and continued support
The center's director, Sister Alberta Blay, encouraged young women to enroll in training programs to gain independence and contribute more to family responsibilities. She also appealed to partners and donors to continue supporting the center, emphasizing that they will be involved in monitoring and evaluation to ensure the long-term success of this promising initiative.
