Kenya is eastern and central Africa’s largest and most developed economy. It is now experiencing a major youth bulge of more than 1 in 5 Kenyans aged between 15 and 24 years, with a population of 48 million people. Like many developing countries, Kenya is at the cusp of one of the greatest demographic changes in history. With the working-age population (16-65) projected to rise to 73% by 2050, is part of a larger phenomenon. 41% of the world’s young people will be African in three generations. There will be a significant percentage in Kenya. This youth bulge is caused by a rise in life expectancy, along with lower fertility rates. 91% of Next Generation research respondents said they loved their country and accepted that Kenya had made progress in recent decades. In this article, we discuss opportunities for young Kenyans.
Opportunities for Young Kenyans
In a country dogged by ethnic divides, this is a strong base on which national pride, personal ambition, and technical skills can be developed and harnessed to support the nation’s economic future. Nevertheless, 38% will be able to travel for work overseas, preferably in the US. This is due to pull factors posed by increased global connectivity through social media and the Internet. Meanwhile, crime, corruption, violence, and unemployment are driving factors that intensify the urge of many young people to move abroad.
Education System
The problems begin with the educational system. In the last couple of years, school attendance and perceptions of the education system increased. This is amid persistent questions about corruption in schools related to educational funds and health issues. Research suggests that although there are technical and vocational institutions that could bridge the gap between education and employment. Compared to most colleges, enrollment at college is small, likely due to negative perceptions and the fact that the courses offered at these institutions do not always meet the global standards needed to meet employers’ needs.
Unemployment
Unemployment is today’s greatest problem facing young Kenyans, and it is proportionally much higher than that of the entire population. Given the fact that the economy of the nation is rising faster than the average of the continent, job levels are moving the other direction, resulting in pessimism among young people about their prospects.
Empowerment and Commitment
The lack of empowerment and commitment among young people also extends to society and politics. None of the people questioned in qualitative research felt they had a voice in their society not due to lack of interest, but through a pessimism about their chances of being taken seriously by the older generation. Meanwhile, women face even more obstacles to achieving their ambitions. Research shows that while 80% believe in gender equality, they face crime, sexism, and household barriers that restrict their chances. There are several job opportunities that are enhancing in the US. Therefore, many Kenyans are more focused on going to the US for employment.
Conclusion
The ability that the next generation will bring to Kenyan society’s future and the economy will make all the difference in becoming a productive nation by exploiting a demographic dividend. The most significant difference can be made by investing to increase job opportunities and enhancing skills access to young Kenyans.
