Understanding career opportunities & job placement trends in Africa

In Africa, it is estimated that between 8 to 11 million young people will enter the labor market annually in the coming years. However, only 3 million new formal wage jobs are created each year, highlighting a significant gap in job opportunities for the growing youth population. Lerato Kubuzie, the Senior Program Manager for Employer Engagement and Partnerships, discussed the current employment trends in Africa on CNBC Africa. Kubuzie emphasized the need for addressing the evolving job market dynamics, where young leaders are facing challenges in securing employment due to a shift towards prioritizing specialized soft and cognitive skills over traditional academic qualifications. The demand for skills that align with digital trends and market needs is reshaping the requirements for employability. The conversation delved into the disconnect between academic institutions, graduates, and employers regarding the readiness of graduates for the job market. While universities believe their curriculum adequately prepares students for work, employers express concerns about the skills gap and readiness of graduates. This disparity underscores the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to bridge the gap between education and industry requirements. Kubuzie highlighted the critical role of internships in enhancing employability and urged organizations to provide meaningful opportunities for young leaders to gain practical experience and develop their skills. The focus on dignified and fulfilling jobs is vital in addressing underemployment, where many young people end up in roles that do not fully utilize their skills. Moreover, the discussion touched upon the informal economy in Africa, where a significant portion of the workforce operates. Kubuzie noted the efforts to integrate entrepreneurs and workers in the informal sector into the formal economy through financial inclusion initiatives. Collaborative partnerships and interventions are essential in creating opportunities for marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities and refugees, to increase overall inclusion in the job market. While challenges persist in matching the skills of the youth with market demands, initiatives focusing on skill development, entrepreneurship, and formalization of the informal economy are driving positive change. The call for greater collaboration between academia, employers, and young leaders remains crucial in addressing the complex landscape of employment in Africa.