East Africa: Enhancing skills development for future of work

Education and work in Sub-Saharan Africa play a significant role in shaping the livelihoods of nearly a billion people in the region. The shortage of skilled professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields has been a persistent challenge in many African countries, leading to a mismatch between the skills possessed by the youth and the job market demands. CNBC Africa recently engaged in a conversation with Yvonne Kagondu, Regional Director of ICP East Africa, to delve deeper into the current state of affairs and potential solutions to bridge this skills gap. The interview shed light on the challenges faced by the region, the importance of equipping young people with relevant skills, and the need for strategic partnerships to drive growth and development for generations to come. Yvonne highlighted the need for Africa, particularly East Africa, to leverage emerging technologies to create a competitive edge in the global market. She emphasized the importance of training the youth in high-demand skills like web development and blockchain technology to ensure they are well-equipped to thrive in the ever-evolving job market. Additionally, Yvonne underscored the significance of fostering strategic partnerships with governments and regulatory bodies to create a conducive environment for innovation and skill development. This article unpacks the key points raised during the interview and explores the implications of addressing the skills gap in East Africa for the future of work and economic prosperity.