Youth Employment Clock to Tackle Youth Unemployment Crisis

In a groundbreaking move to address the youth unemployment crisis in Uganda, Mastercard Foundation, World Data Lab, and Uganda’s Ministry of ICT have launched the Africa Youth Employment Clock, a data-driven tool designed to provide real-time insights into youth employment trends across the continent.

The launch event, presided over by Joyce Ssebugwawo, Uganda’s State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, is seen as a significant step towards tackling the growing employment challenges facing Uganda’s youthful population.

The Africa Youth Employment Clock aims to provide actionable, real-time data that highlights gaps in youth employment and identifies emerging opportunities.

The tool’s objective is to empower both policymakers and young Ugandans by offering critical information to shape better employment strategies and foster a more sustainable, inclusive job market.

Dr. Wolfgang Fengler, CEO of World Data Lab, underscored the significance of the clock, stating, “This clock is more than a data tool; it is a commitment to ensuring that African youth can look forward to a future of dignified and fulfilling work.”

The tool will enable governments, businesses, and young people to collaborate in designing targeted interventions and policies to address the urgent need for job creation across the continent.

Speaking at the launch, Adrian Bukenya, Uganda Country Director for the Mastercard Foundation, emphasized Uganda’s unique challenges and how the clock will be a game-changer in addressing the needs of the youth.

"With one of Africa’s fastest-growing youth populations, Uganda requires actionable, real-time data to inform decisions on creating dignified and fulfilling work opportunities," he said.

"This tool will empower leaders, businesses, and young Ugandans themselves to shape a future of meaningful employment."

**Minister Ssebugwawo** highlighted the pivotal role of data in Uganda’s youth employment strategies.

"Data is crucial to our youth employment strategy. Comprehensive, real-time data allows us to see where opportunities lie, identify gaps, and tailor programs that address the unique challenges our youth face.

This data-driven approach ensures that resources are allocated effectively and interventions are targeted where they are needed most."

The Mastercard Foundation has long been committed to supporting African youth through educational and employment initiatives, aiming to help young people transition into the workforce and engage meaningfully in economic activities.

Through its collaboration with World Data Lab, the Foundation is helping Uganda unlock the full potential of its young population, paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Minister Ssebugwawo also spoke about Uganda's progress in enhancing ICT and digital skills, aligning with the nation’s digital ambitions.

“Our ministry has embarked on transformative initiatives that align with Uganda's digital ambitions. For instance, the ICT skills training and digital literacy programs empower youth to participate in the digital economy by equipping them with skills for digital and online work,” she said.

She also mentioned the success of programs run by the National Information Technology Authority and partnerships with the private sector in developing a strong foundation for youth in the ICT sector.

This partnership between the Mastercard Foundation, World Data Lab, and the Ugandan government is setting an example for other African nations.

By focusing on youth employment and using data to inform policy decisions, Uganda is positioning itself as a leader in creating a thriving ecosystem for young people to innovate, connect, and excel, especially in the rapidly expanding digital economy.

In closing, Minister Ssebugwawo emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative: “Together, let us harness the power of data to build a prosperous future for Uganda's youth and for Africa as a whole.”

This launch is a critical step in shaping a sustainable and equitable future for the youth in Uganda and beyond.