Africa faces a growing labor challenge as 10-12 million young people enter the job market yearly, with most jobs in the informal sector. The African Week of Skills aims to bridge this gap.
Youth labor challenge in Africa
Each year, around 10 to 12 million young Africans enter the labor market, while 86 percent of jobs in sub-Saharan Africa are in the informal sector. This situation highlights a growing need for better alignment between education and the skills required by the economy.African Week of Skills aims to address the gap
The third African Week of Skills opens on Monday, October 12, in Harare, Zimbabwe. Organized by the African Union, the event focuses on improving training systems to better meet the needs of businesses and industries.Focus on practical training and industry needs
The week’s discussions will involve governments, businesses, training institutions, and development partners. Key goals include strengthening on-the-job training, funding programs, and anticipating the skills needed in manufacturing, agro-food, energy, and logistics.Continental strategies guide the initiative
The event follows broader African strategies, including the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (2026–2035) and the Continental Strategy for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (2025–2034). These aim to make vocational training more relevant and accessible across the continent.Limited access to technical training
Despite these efforts, access to technical and vocational education remains low. In 43 African countries, only 6.5 percent of young people aged 15 to 29 completed such programs, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO).Apprenticeships and internships remain rare
Workplace-based learning is also uncommon. In 35 African countries studied, only 35 out of 1,000 young people aged 15 to 29 participated in apprenticeships or internships. Young women are significantly less likely than young men to access these opportunities.Training must be paired with economic support
The World Bank emphasizes that developing industrial employment requires more than just training. Investments, market opportunities, and business development must accompany skill-building efforts to create sustainable job growth.
