It focuses on the youth-educationemployment nexus in a global economy, because having access to education and later to employment is a precondition for poverty reduction, political stability, peace and security, and sustainable development. Well-educated young people are a source of efficient and productive labour, and a highly skilled and motivated workforce is essential to remaining globally competitive. The report analyses the interdependent relationship between education and employment and the challenges and opportunities facing African young people in these two realms within the context of regional integration and globalization. It provides information, describes best practices and poses questions that policymakers should take into consideration when working on issues that affect young people.

The report asks and examines whether African young people are getting relevant education and skills training; whether education and employment policies are sufficient and effective in securing the future of Africa’s next generation.

Young Africans need to be competitive in international labour markets. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) should be utilized to improve education and employment opportunities. ICTs can make education and skills development accessible to many young people.

As African governments strategize on ways to reduce youth unemployment and underemployment and address challenges relating to the working poor, the report puts forward the following key messages:

• A change of attitude towards young people and by young people in Africa is essential.

• An integrated approach to solving youth development issues and addressing education and employment should be employed.

• In an era of the promotion of regional integration and rapid globalization, African governments should take proactive measures that harness the potential and competitiveness of their young people in the global economy.

More extract for of the executive summary and full report on http://www.uneca.org/ayr2011/