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Paper short abstract

About 10 -12 million young Africans enter the labour market each year where only 3 million formal jobs are available. The presentation seeks to address the question; are African countries preparing their youths for the jobs of the future?

Paper long abstract

Over 75 per cent of the population of Africa is under the age of 35. More decisive actions are needed to turn this demographic asset into an economic dividend,

Many of Africa’s young people remain trapped in poverty that is reflected in multiple dimensions, education, access to quality health care, infrastructure, and lack of job opportunities.

Far too many youths across sub-Saharan Africa emerge from school without the basic skills to advance in their lives

Without jobs after many years of trying, many young Africans are forced to take menial jobs. The pressure is too much when youth have education but no jobs.

While 10-12 million more young people in Africa join the labour market every year, only 3 million formal jobs are created annually. With little to no social protection, young people in Africa cannot afford to not work, thus, under-employment in the informal sector is the norm.

However, there has often been limited government support for innovation and young entrepreneurs, and a lack of government stimulus, especially for often vulnerable groups, including youth, women, and people living with disabilities or HIV/AIDS.

The presentation re-emphasizes youth empowerment and employment to unlock the potential of Africa’s young people.

In particular, there is need for education that can propel young Africans towards their career aspirations. Strong education systems in Africa need transformation. Also, young Africans with the requisite skills are the ones to drive development on the continent.