Preparing African youths for the future of work

Abstract

This study explores the far-reaching changes in the world of work due to the emergence of the digital economy against a background of rising income inequality, concerns about job losses and high levels of unemployment, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, More specifically, it explores the issue of how African governments and other stakeholders are preparing young people for the future of work. It comprises a case study of Rwanda. Data was collected from documents and in-depth semi-structured interviews, and analysed with MaxQDA. Rwanda has sought to become a knowledge economy, and has therefore developed a comprehensive policy framework and several programmes for equipping young people with digital skills. There are also more than 20 incubators and hubs fostering digital start-ups in Kigali. Several international organisations have started training programmes to support of the Rwandan government’s vision.The study finds that digitalisation could help to resolve sub-Saharan Africa’s employment problems through freelancing, labour outsourcing, and start-ups. However, there is a need for deliberate policies and programmes to prepare young people for the future of work. Rwanda is doing well in this regard, and other SSA countries should evaluate its model.