Youth employment is a major concern in many countries. In economies with large young populations, the number of formal jobs available is insufficient to employ all youth entering the working force and to offer them prospects of a decent income. Harnessing entrepreneurial talents among young people and easing constraints of the labour market is vital for inclusive growth. Youth entrepreneurship is now at the centre of global policy discussions and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Young entrepreneurs can become true trailblazers in the call for action on some of the world’s most pressing challenges. This session will discuss conducive youth entrepreneurship policies and best practices, the specific needs of young entrepreneurs and how they can contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable world. The session will build on the Joint UNCTAD and Commonwealth Policy Guide on Youth Entrepreneurship.
Session themes:
- Youth unemployment is a major concern of governments. What are good practices in youth entrepreneurship policies and support programmes?
- To successfully run a business in the 21st century, an entrepreneur needs to be agile, well informed and well connected. What is the skillset that is required and what demands does this place on education systems?
- What are good examples of mentoring and advisory programmes as well as investment schemes that support youth entrepreneurship?
