Employability Factors Contributing to Youth Unemployment in the EAC Countries Data and Policy Analysis

Abstract

This policy research paper analyses employability factors and challenges contributing to youth unemployment and also provides working recommendations for further dialogue and engagement on youth employability in the East African community EAC Countries. The policy analysis is based on the theory of 4-Es as propounded by International Labour Organization ILO and Youth Employment Network literature. The field research survey, focus group discussion, combined observational and consultations with key informants were major research methods used in collecting secondary and primary data and information. Data analysis uses non-parametric methods, mainly frequency and cross tabulations. The paper found that costs of doing business among the youth in the formal and informal economies are significantly high. There are weak limited skills matching systems and provision of relevant curriculum that produce an updated knowledge base. The problem of rural-urban migration is related to inadequate rural infrastructures; lack of establishment of sustainable agro-processing industries, limited provision of rural vocation and training programmes to equip youth with skills for employability. The education and training systems do not comply with regional, international standards and technological changes in the world. There are weak career counselling and guidance centres for youth. There is a limited access to good quality education and thus decent jobs for youth with disability. The policy solution is to enhance employability conditions. Relevant policy strategies include reducing cost of doing business, enhance business skills development and matching; minimizing rural-urban migration; creating conducive environment for business for youth with disability; increasing agricultural mechanization to enhance productivity, increasing rural connectivity and accessibility; improving VET and higher education learning systems; increasing access to schools, technical and vocational training for youth with disability; improving conditions and quality of employment systems and enhancing provision of information regarding employment opportunities in these EAC countries.