Shine Esi Kwawukumey
Accra, March 31, GNA – Experts at an Intergenerational Dialogue organised by the African Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET) have called for increased investment in human capital to improve youth job quality in Africa.
The dialogue, held in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, brought together policymakers, development experts, entrepreneurs and young people to discuss how Africa could transition from underemployment to decent work.
Mr Andrew Dabalen, Chief Economist for the World Bank Africa Region, said the creation of quality jobs depended largely on the growth of competitive businesses supported by strong infrastructure and skilled workers.
“The capabilities of young people are what will create jobs through entrepreneurship, adoption of technology and delivery of quality services,” he said.
He urged young people to demand accountability from governments to prioritise investments in education, health and skills development.
“Ensuring that governments invest in the human capital of young people is the most important thing Africa can do,” he said.
Ms Khadija Jallouli, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of HawKar, said while entrepreneurship created opportunities, it should not become the only pathway because of exclusion from formal employment.
“Entrepreneurship can be empowering, but we must ask whether young people truly choose it or whether it is the only door left open,” she said.
She said a good job must guarantee accessibility, dignity, fair pay and opportunities for career growth, particularly for persons with disabilities.
Participants also highlighted the need for deliberate policies to help transition workers from informal employment into more secure and formal jobs.
The dialogue ended with a call on governments and industry to prioritise job quality as a key pillar of Africa’s economic transformation.
GNA
31 March 2026
Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong