(15 Aug 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – A new study has revealed the devastating scale of youth unemployment in Puntland, with nearly 80% of young people unable to find work. The research, conducted by Mohamed Ahmed Yusuf over nine months and involving over 3,500 participants, paints a bleak picture of a generation grappling with a lack of opportunities and a future shrouded in uncertainty.
The study identified a range of factors contributing to this crisis, including unfair hiring practices, rampant corruption, a mismatch between skills and available jobs, and limited access to investment for entrepreneurial ventures. The consequences of this widespread unemployment are dire, with many young people turning to piracy, drug abuse, and even dangerous migration routes in search of a better life.
The report calls for urgent action from the government, private sector, and civil society to address this pressing issue. Recommendations include improving the quality and relevance of education, attracting international investment, and creating a more transparent and equitable job market. The study also highlights the need for a dedicated youth development fund to support young entrepreneurs and foster innovation.
The findings of this study serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing young people in Puntland. The urgent need to create meaningful employment opportunities is not only crucial for the well-being of the youth but also for the stability and prosperity of the region as a whole.
Halqabsi News
