Management training in the informal sector: does it pay?

Based on experienced gained from pilot seminars for self-employed women conducted by the ILO in Equatorial Guinea (Malabo), Central African Republic (Libreville), Gabon, Gambia (Banjul), Cote d' Ivoire (Abidjan). The ILO successfully tested a set of 80 to 90 pedagogical colour drawings designed to convey simple management messages with an overhead projector. The case study shows that management training in the informal sector is possible, under certain conditions, i.e. with appropriate methods and a right profile of trainees. It is also desirable subject to the reservation that it is not provided alone. In terms of efficiency, the conclusions which can be drawn on the basis of a cost/benefit analysis are still controversial. There are effects which are not measurable but still vital like changes in attitudes and increased social awareness. A second phase of seminars would be essential to measure efficiency.