How Africa can prepare its workforce for the future?

Africa is on the brink of a major demographic shift, with approximately 250 million youths set to join the workforce in the coming years. To navigate this transition successfully, experts argue that Africa needs to prioritize supporting private sector initiatives aimed at educating and upskilling its workforce. Emmanuel Okeleji, the CEO and Co-Founder of SeamlessHR, recently discussed with CNBC Africa how the continent can prepare for the future workforce and harness its demographic dividend. The outcome of the recent U.S. presidential elections has sparked conversations about the potential impact on Africa, a continent projected to have the largest working-age population globally by 2050. Okeleji highlighted that a Trump victory is often perceived as beneficial for businesses due to historically tax-friendly policies associated with Republicans. However, he emphasized the importance of monitoring potential changes in immigration policies and their impact on legal African immigrants. Despite uncertainties, Africa's growing working-age population presents opportunities for enhancing economic ties with the U.S. The youth demographic in Africa is touted as a significant asset that could drive global economic activity. Okeleji noted that while the continent has the world's youngest population, there's a risk of squandering this potential if young people remain unemployed or underutilized. He underscored the need for Africa to create an environment where its youth can thrive locally, rather than seeking opportunities abroad. Companies like SeamlessHR play a vital role in facilitating skill development and nurturing a competitive workforce that can contribute to economic growth. Collaboration between governments, private sector entities, and other stakeholders is crucial in bridging the skills gap in Africa. Okeleji stressed that both the government and private sector share responsibility in addressing the demographic challenges facing the continent. Governments must focus on creating conducive environments for businesses to thrive, while the private sector should invest in enhancing productivity and building sustainable institutions. By prioritizing talent retention and investing in human capital development, Africa can bolster its workforce and stimulate economic progress. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize the future workforce in Africa. Okeleji acknowledged the growing significance of AI in driving business innovation and efficiency. However, he highlighted a key obstacle for African businesses – the high cost of AI implementation. To ensure that African companies can leverage AI effectively, solutions like those offered by SeamlessHR aim to provide affordable AI tools tailored to the region's needs. By democratizing access to AI technology, organizations in Africa can enhance their competitiveness and adapt to the evolving demands of the global market. In conclusion, Africa stands at a pivotal juncture in harnessing its demographic dividend and embracing technological advancements like AI to shape its future workforce. By fostering collaboration, investing in skill development, and embracing innovation, the continent can position itself as a key player in the global economy.