Unlocking opportunities for Senegalese youth through digital urban music

Challenge

In Sub-Saharan Africa, millions of young people, especially in rural and disadvantaged urban areas, face a severe lack of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Limited access to quality internet and low enrollment rates in higher education only worsen this issue. Additionally, poverty, inadequate investment in educational and digital infrastructure, and a shortage of relevant content widen the educational gap.

Despite a strong interest in the cultural and creative industries, the absence of structure and professional pathways in the sector leaves many young people without meaningful opportunities to develop their talents.

Innovative solution

Through the “African Urban Music Campus” project, Kajou is committed to providing free, no-diploma-required digital training in urban music to 10,000 young Senegalese. With a groundbreaking approach to both content and delivery (via SD cards), the program consists of two seasons and 20 comprehensive modules covering key aspects of urban music creation and production. Participants will learn skills in songwriting, sound design, as well as key entrepreneurial, legal, and digital skills, while also receiving career guidance to help them navigate professional opportunities in the music industry.

Impact

• Distribution of 10,000 SD cards and e-cards with urban music training content
• Access for 6,000 young people, including 1,800 women, to the training offered under the project, with 75% improving their soft skills
• Certification awarded to 1,800 young people for successfully completing the training
• Launch of new projects or professionalization of existing ones for 600 young people, six months after completing the training