What Next? Enhancing African Students' Transition to Employment Through Effective Career Services
Collaborating for Young People's Success: Creating a Sustainable Talent Pipeline in Africa
ESSA has launched its latest report, titled "What Next? Enhancing African Students' Transition to Employment through Effective Career Services."
The report provides valuable insights and recommendations to bridge the gap between education and employment. ESSA conducted the research in partnership with The Education Collaborative at Ashesi University and Kepler University in Rwanda, with financial support from Dubai Cares.
The report was unveiled during an Industry Roundtable event in Accra on Tuesday, 27 June 2023. It addresses the issue of youth unemployment in sub-Saharan Africa, emphasising the significant skills gap between universities' offerings and the labour market demands.
It presents a three-step approach to address this gap and improve employability outcomes for African students:
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Step 1: Understand employer demand for skills.
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Step 2: Take a holistic approach to career services.
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Step 3: Measure progress.
Based on the findings, the report offers evidence-based recommendations for universities, colleges, and employers:
Recommendations for universities and colleges:
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Collaborate with industry to assess the labour market and understand required skills.
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Engage students in career service initiatives from the beginning.
Recommendations for employers:
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Proactively seek partnerships with universities.
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Share skills requirements with universities and establish a digital platform for industry data sharing.
The "What Next? Enhancing African Students' Transition to Employment through Effective Career Services" report serves as a valuable resource for universities, colleges, educators, employers, and policymakers seeking to address graduate unemployment in sub-Saharan Africa.
Together, let us create a sustainable talent pipeline for African youth.