Investment in agriculture: Way to absorb teeming unemployed youth
The global youth unemployment crisis is a pressing concern that demands innovative solutions.
Advertisement
As economies evolve and technology reshapes industries, young individuals find themselves struggling to secure meaningful employment opportunities.
In this context, the agricultural sector emerges as a beacon of hope, offering not only job opportunities but also a chance to address food security and sustainable development.
Investment in agriculture presents a surefire approach to absorbing the teeming unemployed youth and fostering a resilient, prosperous future.
Conundrum
Youth unemployment is a multifaceted problem with far-reaching economic and social consequences.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) estimated that around 13.1 per cent of the global youth population would be unemployed in 2020.
Many young people encounter obstacles when attempting to enter the traditional job market due to a lack of skills, experience or opportunities.
A result, they face the disheartening cycle of joblessness, contributing to reduced self-esteem, increased poverty rates and societal instability.
Agricultural sector as viable solution.
Investing in agriculture presents an overlooked but potent solution to the youth unemployment crisis.
Traditionally seen as a labour-intensive field, agriculture has undergone a significant transformation in recent years.
Modern agricultural practices integrate cutting-edge technology, precision farming techniques, and data-driven approaches, making it an attractive sector for tech-savvy young individuals.
Agriculture has evolved beyond traditional farming methods, creating diverse opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
From agri-tech startups developing innovative solutions for irrigation and pest control to sustainable farming ventures focused on organic produce, the sector is ripe for youthful innovation.
Furthermore, the agri-business value chain encompasses logistics, processing, marketing, and distribution, offering a range of career paths that can cater to various skill sets and interests.
Investment in agriculture goes beyond monetary considerations.
Equipping young people with the necessary skills and knowledge is equally essential.
Educational institutions and vocational training centres can collaborate with the agricultural sector to offer specialised courses that bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.
This will empower youth with relevant expertise, increase their employability and enhance the sector's productivity.
Addressing food
security, sustainability
The benefits of investing in agriculture extend beyond job creation.
With a growing global population, ensuring food security is a paramount concern.
By engaging young individuals in agricultural activities, nations can strengthen their food production capacities, reduce reliance on imports and contribute to the overall resilience of their economies.
Moreover, investing in sustainable agricultural practices can mitigate environmental challenges, ensuring the longevity of the sector and safeguarding future generations' livelihoods.
Government, private
sector collaboration
Realising the potential of agriculture to absorb unemployed youth requires a concerted effort from both the government and the private sector.
Governments can implement policies that provide incentives for agricultural investments, offer financial support to budding agri-entrepreneurs, and facilitate access to land and resources.
Private sector players, including agribusinesses and investors, can play a pivotal role by partnering educational institutions, providing mentorship and funding promising agricultural ventures.
Conclusion
Investment in agriculture holds the promise of addressing two critical challenges simultaneously: youth unemployment and food security.
By modernising the sector, promoting entrepreneurship, and nurturing skill development, nations can tap into a reservoir of untapped potential in their young workforce.
Governments, private enterprises, and educational institutions must collaborate to create an ecosystem that fosters agricultural innovation and offers meaningful opportunities to the teeming unemployed youth.
In doing so, we not only absorb this demographic dividend but also cultivate a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
The writer is a PhD student,
University for Development Studies, Tamale, N/R.
E-mail: [email protected]