The world of work is being profoundly affected by the global virus pandemic. In addition to the threat to public health, the economic and social disruption threatens the long-term livelihoods and well being of millions.
The most vulnerable, in particular young people and less resilient economies are the most impacted by the consequences of this multi-dimensional crisis. Of the 54 African countries, 33 are among the least developed which has serious consequences in terms of access to healthcare and social and labour protections.
Key issues for Africa’s sustainable development to emerge from the impact of COVID-19 includes the need to focus on bridging the digital skilling divide and strengthening current and future workforces. Work-based learning, a key component of a robust Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) landscape can offer a sustainable approach to addressing many of the skilling challenges facing the continent.
This webinar will assess solutions to improve skills acquisition, competitiveness and economic development, as well as youth employment. The discussion will also take into consideration current challenges to career pathways, access to lifelong and work-based learning, as well as improved TVET systems.
As governments and responsible bodies activate policy responses to address the economic fall-out from COVID-19, GAN Global, the African Union and development partners including the British Council and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA/NEPAD) aim to stimulate dialogue and trust between stakeholders to address issues such as vocational education reforms and strengthened public private partnerships. The discussion is timely, two days after the United Nation’s International Youth Day on 12 August and will link to the youth engagement for global action from that platform.
By bringing together thought leaders from public and private spheres and youth, the GAN will create bridges. Together, we will design new solutions applicable to future projects and re-imagine a sustainable way forward. Join us!
Registration
Speakers:
• Nazrene Mannie, Executive Director, GAN Global – Moderator
Part 1: Scene Setting
• Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, Head of Human Resource and Youth Development, African Union Commission – Keynote Address
• Robert Njoroge, Skills and Enterprise Portfolio Lead , Education & Society Sub-Saharan Africa, British Council
Part 2: Moderated Panel Discussion
• Natalie Mukundane, Executive Chairperson, African Youth Commission
• Cheryl James, Regional Coordinator in Southern Africa, Skills Initiative for Africa (SIFA)
• Unami Mpofu, Senior Program Officer, Skills and Employment for Youth, AUDA – NEPAD
• Magnus Johnson, Philanthropies Lead Sub-Saharan Africa, Microsoft
• Bellaro Mupurua, GAN Liaison, Namibian Employers’ Federation (NEF)
• Gladys Quarshie, National Apprenticeship Expert for I-WORK project, British Council