Empowering youth through skills development: unlocking opportunities for a brighter future.

According to the International Labour Organisation’s World Employment and Social Outlook Trends: 2024 (WESO Trends) the unemployment rate and the jobs gap rate – which is the number of persons without employment who are interested in finding a job – have fallen. The 2023 global unemployment rate stood at 5.1%, a modest improvement from 2022 when it stood at 5.3%. The global jobs gap and labour market participation rates also improved in 2023.

However, the report finds that beneath these numbers fragility is starting to emerge. It projects that the labour market outlook and global unemployment will both worsen this year 2024,and an extra two million workers are expected to be looking for jobs, raising the global unemployment rate from 5.1% in 2023 to 5.2%.

Meanwhile in Africa, the unemployment rate is expected to reach seven percent (7%) this year 2024. Trends show that from 2000 – 2024, unemployment levels varied significantly across African countries, climaxing at 7.2% in 2021 with South Africa registering the highest rate in 2024 at around 30%.

Uganda’s international youth day theme; “Skills Development for Enhancement of Youth” creates a great opportunity for reflection, as the world grapples with the challenges of unemployment, economic growth, and social inequality. Skills development is key to unlocking opportunities for young people given such biting rates of unemployment world over.

Consequently, rethinking Uganda’s approach to address the unemployment dilemma through a skills development strategy is very vital for a country where over 70% of the population is under the age of 30. Investing in youth skills development is crucial for driving economic growth, reducing poverty and promoting social inclusion.

According to a survey by Makerere University Business School of Economics, College of Business and Management sciences (2021) published on may 11th 2024 at Africa press, it is highlighted that skills gap between job seekers and available positions is a major challenge for Uganda, as many youth lack the skills and competencies required to succeed in modern workforce.  This is indicative of the fact that even when jobs are available, there is no guarantee that young job seekers will be suitable candidates.

In the survey report, industries expressed concern over the deficiency in practical skills, critical thinking and technical expertise which indicates a pressing need for tailored vocational training and education reforms. Hence, tackling the glaring skills gaps in Uganda needs a conscious approach from the government and all stake holders.

Fortunately various efforts in terms of skills development initiatives are underway to address the skills gap and enhance youth opportunities. These include for example; vocational training programs in areas like IT, agriculture and manufacturing, entrepreneurship training and mentorship schemes, apprenticeships and on the job training, soft skills development, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership.

Nevertheless, credit must be given where it is due to the extent that there are some success stories to talk about. Many young Ugandans have benefited from skills development initiatives, going on to secure employment, start their own businesses, or pursue further education through various government initiatives like the presidential initiative in skilling the girl and boy child on going.

In conclusion therefore; skills development is critical for enhancing youth opportunities and driving economic growth. By empowering young people with the skills and competencies they need, through;  harmonized efforts by all stakeholders, more effort to provide accessible and affordable training programs; promote entrepreneurship and job creation; foster partnerships between industry and education providers, Uganda can unlock their potential and build a brighter future.