The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Improving lifelong learning in Panama
UNOPS is helping to enhance vocational training across the country – promoting ongoing learning opportunities that meet labour market needs.
Latest updates
30 April 2025
Construction of two new training centres has commenced, which have been designed with clean energy features and rainwater harvesting systems to promote environmental sustainability on-site. A groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of works was attended by the President of Panama, the Director of INADEH and UNOPS Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, among other high level representatives.
The new centres will have capacity to train 21,000 participants per year in areas such as: gastronomy, hospitality, logistics, electromechanics, and technology. The centres will also provide dedicated spaces for hands-on training in beauty and auto mechanics.
"With this project, Panama demonstrates that it is possible to reactivate the economy by generating real jobs for Panamanians, dedicated to serving the country. Today we sow the seeds of the future and reaffirm our commitment to a country that leaves no one behind," said José Raúl Mulino Quintero, President of Panama (read more) .
“It is dignity. It is an opportunity. It is development with equity. Because here, at INADEH, a person without formal education, without resources, can train for free and have access to quality employment," said Yajaira Pitti, INADEH’s Director.
Read more (in Spanish)
In today’s rapidly-evolving labour market, it is crucial that job seekers and employees continue to learn new skills and abilities in order to remain relevant and to meet the needs of productive sectors.
In Panama, the National Institute of Vocational Training and Capacity Building for Human Development (INADEH) is the governing body for vocational training, job training and business management training, which promotes a culture of training for life and work. But with just 30 per cent of INADEH’s academic offerings aligning with the country’s actual labour market needs, together with a network of training centres that is struggling to meet demand due to aging infrastructure and outdated equipment, support is needed to modernize the institute's operations and facilities.
In partnership with the government of Panama and with funding from the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), UNOPS is working with INADEH to ensure it can provide professionals nationwide with the skills and qualifications needed by employers – now and in the future.
With $55 million in funding from CAF, the initiative includes improving the quality and relevance of INADEH’s training programmes; providing personnel, including teachers and administrative staff, with ongoing training; and upgrading the infrastructure and equipment of its training centres.
We’re proud to work with INADEH and the government to support Panama’s commitment to inclusive and high-quality technical education – empowering over 100,000 Panamanians, over the next five years, with the necessary skills and qualifications to find quality employment.
