The World Bank, in collaboration with the Inter-University Council for East Africa and the Government of Kenya, has launched the Africa Skills for Jobs Policy Academy. This initiative is designed to address one of the continent’s most pressing challenges—youth unemployment—by equipping millions of young Africans with the practical skills required to thrive in high-potential sectors. The program represents a timely intervention to bridge the gap between education and the realities of today’s labor markets.
Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, Ndiame Diop, vice president for Eastern and Southern Africa at the World Bank, emphasized the urgency of the initiative. Each year, 10 to 12 million young Africans enter the job market, yet only about 3 million formal jobs are created. This imbalance forces millions into informal employment or leaves them jobless altogether. The Policy Academy is designed to deliver practical, scalable solutions that respond to this mismatch and prepare African youth for meaningful employment opportunities.
The three-day launch event convened over 250 participants from more than 20 countries, bringing together senior policymakers, private sector leaders, development partners, and World Bank experts. Discussions focused on aligning policy reforms, education, and skills development with the demands of emerging sectors. Key among these are agri-food value chains, tourism, energy, and digital platforms—areas with immense growth potential if supported by a skilled and capable workforce.
Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) was highlighted as a critical enabler in this process. Esther Thaara Muoria, principal secretary for Kenya’s State Department for TVET, underscored the importance of recognizing skills development as a catalyst for Africa’s industrialization and long-term economic transformation. With targeted reforms and investment in TVET, the academy seeks to close the skills gap that has long restricted youth employability across the continent.
Mary Porter Peschka, regional director for Eastern Africa at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), added that skills shortages remain a top constraint for businesses seeking to hire and expand. By supporting the academy, the IFC aims to help align training systems with labor market realities, ensuring education becomes a true driver of employment. This collaborative effort between development partners, governments, and the private sector is poised to create stronger linkages between classrooms and workplaces.
The Africa Skills for Jobs Policy Academy represents more than just a program; it is a commitment to transforming Africa’s demographic dividend into a powerful economic engine. By fostering partnerships, reforming education systems, and prioritizing skills development, this initiative has the potential to reshape the future of work for Africa’s youth, driving inclusive growth and unlocking opportunities across the continent.
