Youth employment crisis: Urgent call for labour market itegration

The widening employment and skill gap among Ugandan youth continues to alarm educationists and policymakers, as recent statistics reveal that most young people completing their education are ill-equipped to secure employment.

The situation is even more dire for those who have not completed their education, as they face numerous challenges, including a lack of financial support and inadequate policy frameworks.

Under the "YouthCan" project, focused on both Rwanda and Uganda, educationists, youth, and funders recently convened to discuss strategies to improve youth employability in the current labor market.

The project coordinator, Benon Webare, highlighted a troubling trend: "Research shows that most youth, after completing their education, are unsure of how to secure a job. Employers are increasingly complaining that these graduates are not adequately equipped."

This issue, according to experts, is not unique to Uganda but is a pervasive problem across Africa, requiring urgent government intervention.

There is a growing concern that Uganda may fall behind if immediate action is not taken.

"Unlike Rwanda, Uganda is not action-oriented. We have policies, such as those on Business, Technical, Vocational Education and Training (BTVET), but while other countries have implemented them effectively, here they remain mere policy documents," said a participant during the discussions.

Youth voices were also prominent in the discussions, with many expressing that the problem extends beyond skills to the overall environment for young entrepreneurs and job seekers.

Mercy, a young participant, said: "We need to make it easier for young people to do business. The policies and taxes currently in place—do they give newcomers a fair chance to thrive? We need to be patient but also proactive in creating a supportive environment."

The "YouthCan" project and the ongoing dialogues are seen as crucial steps in addressing the critical gaps in the youth labor market.

However, without concrete action and government commitment, the future of Uganda's youth remains uncertain.

The call to action is clear: Uganda must move from policy to implementation, creating a labor market that is inclusive and supportive of its young population.