By Silvia Nyambura
East African youth continue to face huge challenges while entering the job market, a new report has revealed. The youth-led research released today by The MasterCard Foundation Youth Think Tank in partnership with Restless Development (a youth-led international development agency) revealed findings from the peer-to-peer research report providing key insights into youth employment and entrepreneurship trends in East Africa.
The report, which includes data from more than 400 interviews with youth, government representatives and other stakeholders across the region, found that young people in East Africa are optimistic about developing their skills, pursuing self-employment and are eager to participate in the policy decisions that impact their lives.
Speaking at the launch event held at the Fairway Hotel in Kampala this morning, Ann Miles, the Director Financial Inclusion and Youth Livelihoods at The MasterCard Foundation said, “The Youth Think Tank demonstrates the dedication and energy of young people to seek positive change within their communities. Their research is an important piece of work that will help to inform not only the Foundation’s strategy for expanding youth economic opportunities, but also governments and policymakers in the youth development space.
