INCLUDE recently hosted a high-level symposium titled "Decent Jobs for Youth and Women in Nigeria’s Low-Carbon Transition: Insights from Nigeria," which brought together lawmakers including a large array of members of the House committee on renewable energy, climate change and youth among others.  Experts and other key policy stakeholders were also gracing the event to explore the intersection of renewable energy and inclusive job creation.

This year INCLUDE joined the Solar Hands-on Training and International Network of Exchange (SHINE). In this EU-funded consortium, we are working together with African VET schools and European partners on greening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for the solar industry in Africa. As the research partner, we are laying the project's theoretical foundation. Through literature review and discussions with experts and practitioners, we have gleaned key insights that are shared in this blog. 

Plastic waste recycling presents an opportunity to create sustainable jobs while benefiting the environment. But the question remains, how can stakeholders contribute to a conducive waste recycling ecosystem, unlocking its green job potential among Africa’s youth? We are excited to present an infographic showcasing the pathways and recommendations for Green & Decent Jobs for Youth in Africa.

This blog is part of a research project on the opportunities for decent work for youth in Africa’s Waste Recycling Sector, in collaboration with the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment (CFYE). Waste management in Africa is a major challenge for sustainable and inclusive development. Due to poor management, 90% of the waste generated in Africa is disposed of in landfills and uncontrolled dumpsites with severe consequences for the environment and people working in the waste management sector.

We are happy to announce the continuation of our research partnership with the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment (CFYE), focusing on decent youth employment in the context of the Green Economy transition in Africa. Building on the insights from last year’s research report, this project will further explore the potential for green jobs creation by looking at the waste recycling sector in Africa, continuing our research into Green Jobs as a possible solution for Africa’s increasing youth population.