Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship: Part 1 – A Baseline for JAY4T
At the start of 2025, JAY4T conducted a youth employment and entrepreneurship survey to better understand the challenges, aspirations, and opportunities facing young people in our network. The insights from this survey provide a critical baseline for shaping our interventions and tracking progress in the coming years.
Who Took the Survey?
The survey respondents were primarily young people between 18 and 30, representing different counties and cities. Their education levels varied; some had diplomas, degrees, or secondary education, while a few had completed only primary school.
Current Employment and Entrepreneurship Trends
- Unemployment is a major concern, with many respondents either actively seeking work or still in school.
- Among those employed, careers in Technology/IT and creative industries were common.
- A significant number of respondents are interested in entrepreneurship, with many looking to start businesses in services and tech-related industries.
Key Challenges Facing Young People
When asked about the biggest obstacles to employment or entrepreneurship, respondents highlighted:
- Lack of access to capital as the biggest barrier.
- Limited networks and connections that could help them find jobs or business opportunities.
- The need for more practical skills training to match industry demands.
Skills and Training Needs
While many respondents already possess soft skills like communication and teamwork, others have technical skills in IT, carpentry, and finance. However, they expressed a strong desire for:
- Digital and tech skills to stay competitive in the job market.
- Business management and vocational training to help them start and sustain businesses.
- Networking and mentorship opportunities to build connections in their fields of interest.
Aspirations for the Future
Over the next three years, respondents have set ambitious goals:
- Secure stable employment in their chosen fields.
- Start and grow their own businesses.
- Gain new skills and education to increase their chances of success.
How JAY4T Can Support Youth Development
Respondents expressed a strong interest in JAY4T’s programs, with key areas of support including:
- Networking opportunities to connect with mentors and employers.
- Job placement services to help young people transition into the workforce.
- Skills training and mentorship to equip them with practical, in-demand abilities.
Some also suggested that JAY4T offer hands-on training programs in innovation, vocational skills, and specialized trades like baking and creative arts.
Next Steps: Turning Insights into Action
This survey has provided valuable data that will inform JAY4T’s strategy for empowering youth through employment and entrepreneurship programs. By addressing the identified gaps, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for young people to build sustainable careers and businesses.
We invite stakeholders, partners, and youth themselves to collaborate with us as we implement solutions based on these findings. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and drive real impact in our communities.
Stay tuned for updates on how we turn these insights into action. If you’re a young person looking for support or an organization willing to collaborate, get in touch with us!
