Nairobi, Kenya
A team of local PEP researchers in Kenya, in collaboration with the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), presented the findings of their study that examined youth employment policies and programs.
November 22, 2022 – PEP researchers in Kenya presented findings and recommendations for enhancing the sustainability of youth employment policies and programs to promote better-quality jobs for the country's youth.
In an effort to tackle the issue of youth unemployment in Kenya, PEP researchers partnered with the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) to convene a national policy conference. With over 150 attendees, including Jane Mariara, PEP's Executive Director, the event was a unique opportunity for policy stakeholders, academics, and representatives from civil society and the private sector to come together and explore solutions to this critical challenge.
Notably, the event was attended by key policymakers, including representatives from the Ministry of Labor, the State Department for Youth Affairs, and the Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA). The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions and share insights on how to effectively address unemployment and create better opportunities for Kenya's youth.
The research team presented findings and recommendations from their study that reviewed several youth employment policies and programs in Kenya.
The research team explained that comprehensive programmes that include effective evaluation mechanisms, better coordination, and school-to-work transition frameworks are crucial to ensuring more opportunities for decent and fulfilling work for young people in the country. Further, to achieve lasting impacts, the researchers explained that it is also vital to ensure that the right beneficiaries are targeted and that accountability mechanisms are in place to track the progress and effectiveness of programmes.
The team's study has made a significant impact, evidenced by the utilization of their findings in a presentation at COP27 in Egypt by a youth participant. In addition, their research has informed the development plans for several counties in Kenya for 2023-2027, focusing on addressing pertinent youth issues, such as creating better-quality jobs and accelerating work opportunities. These achievements demonstrate the valuable contribution the research has made in shaping youth policies and development plans in Kenya.
Two journalists attended the event, underlining the public interest in the team's evaluation.
The research team organized the event with financial and advisory support from PEP and the Mastercard Foundation.
