Call for private sector involvement in upskilling developing countries’ youth

The gap between marketplace skills and education output continues to widen, especially in Africa and other developing countries. In order to produce more employable youth, there is a growing call to integrate private sector input in curriculum development. Amal Mowafy, the International Labour Organization’s Regional Youth Employment Technical Specialist for Africa, highlighted the importance of addressing the demand and supply sides of the labor market, as well as the intermediation aspects to bridge this gap. Mowafy emphasized the challenges faced by young people transitioning to the labor market, stressing the need to consider what skills the labor market demands and the experience young people bring with them. It is crucial to provide information and employment opportunities to empower youth. By taking an integrated and holistic approach towards education and skills development, stakeholders can work together to prepare the youth for the changing world of work. In a recent interview conducted by CNBC Africa at the Islamic Development Bank annual meetings in Marrakesh, Morocco, Mowafy discussed the evolving nature of work and the need to prepare youth for future skills requirements. The Global Commission report on the future of work, recently launched by the ILO, highlights the rapid changes taking place in various sectors and the importance of aligning education with the skills needed in the future. As Africa's population grows, the urgency to address the skills gap is becoming more apparent. Mowafy emphasized the need for a collaborative effort involving governments, employers, workers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the education system is aligned with the demands of the job market. The curriculum should be designed in consultation with industry needs to make it more relevant and practical. One of the key points raised by Mowafy is the importance of core employability skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and learning to learn. These skills are essential for young people to adapt to changing environments, new technologies, and economic shifts. By embedding these core skills in the educational curriculum, youth can become more resilient and better equipped for the labor market. To bridge the skills gap effectively, the private sector must play a pivotal role in curriculum design and delivery. On-the-job training, internships, and other forms of practical experience are essential in preparing young people for the workforce. By involving the private sector in the skills development process, youth can acquire the necessary work ethics and readiness for employment. The ILO has been actively engaged in youth employment initiatives in Africa, with 60% of their work focusing on the continent. Through capacity building, fostering social dialogue, and collaborating with various countries and regions, the ILO is working towards improving youth employment prospects in Africa. Mowafy also highlighted the consequences of failing to address the skills training and upgrades needed in Africa. Without adequate skills development, the continent risks falling behind in the rapidly changing global economy. Skill-to-work transition surveys conducted in 34 countries, including those in Africa, provide valuable insights into the gaps that need to be addressed to secure a brighter future for African youth.