Youth aspirations and the reality of jobs in Africa
The gap between youth aspirations and the reality of the labour markets in Africa
is large. Career aspirations of young Africans have little in common with current
and projected labour demand in the region, making it unlikely that they will go through
a smooth school to work transition. Evidence from ten African countries shows that
what youth in these countries value most is job security, such as work in the public
sector. Agriculture-related work or medium-skilled jobs in manufacturing are the least
attractive for young Africans. Policies can help address the misalignment between
youth employment preferences and employment opportunities. A two-pronged approach
is recommended: i) helping young people shape career aspirations that are realistic
and that can fit with the world they will be entering, and ii) improving the quality
of jobs with due regard to the job conditions that matter for young people.
Published on March 26, 2021Also available in: French
In series:OECD Development Policy Papersview more titles