Côte d’Ivoire

Several people are posing for a group photo. — The DVV International team Côte d'Ivoire in front of the new office building in Abidjan

DVV International began working in Côte d’Ivoire in early 2026 when it relocated the West Africa regional office from Bamako to Abidjan. Literacy and remedial basic education are central topics when it comes to adult learning and education (ALE) in Côte d’Ivoire. With the restructuring of the sub-sector since 2021, the Ivoirian government has implemented significant reforms. These include capacity development within the ministry, updating strategies and policies, establishing a monitoring system and creating a cross-sectoral coordination body between state and non-state actors.

However, indicators such as the persistent high illiteracy rate of around 47% show that the government measures have had only limited impact so far and that the considerable educational needs of young people and adults are not being adequately met. Based on the national strategy for literacy and non-formal education (2026), DVV International in Côte d’Ivoire is committed to strengthening a multisectoral ALE system that not only supports the individual acquisition of knowledge and skills but also contributes to societal development and the promotion of democracy and the local economy.

Main focus of work

Implementation of the national strategy for literacy and non-formal education: DVV International promotes the strategy and advises the various governmental and non-governmental actors on its implementation. In addition, the institute supports the establishment of a monitoring system for the strategy.
Professionalisation of adult educators: DVV International provides continuing education opportunities for adult educators to improve their qualifications and their overall teaching quality.
Pilot establishment of ALE centres: DVV International supports the targeted promotion of model centres in three communities. This includes needs assessments, further training for teachers and management staff as well as equipment and support in the development of integrated educational programmes, such as those that combine literacy with income-generating measures.
Support for the implementation of CONFINTEA recommendations in the region: DVV International advises and supports five countries in the region (Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Togo) in developing action plans and lobbying for the implementation of the Marrakesh Framework for Action.

Partners

The main partner is the Ministry of National Education with its four directorates responsible for adult learning and education. UNESCO, the national umbrella organisations of ALE providers and the universities active in this field are also important partners. At the regional level, there is close cooperation with the West African adult learning and education network, PAMOJA Education.