The European Union (EU) Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, emphasized the importance of engaging young people in policymaking to empower African youth.
She stressed the need for the EU to invest more in Africa’s human capital, supporting education, dialogue, and business partnerships to nurture future leaders and a skilled workforce.
Urpilainen noted Africa’s growing global significance, seen in increased diplomatic involvement and demand for representation. She highlighted the EU’s commitment, including the €300 billion “Global Gateway,” with a significant portion allocated for Africa, citing projections that by 2030, Africa will host 20% of the world’s population, mostly under 20 years old.
Acknowledging the demographic dividend, she emphasized the need for job creation, education, and skill development. Leveraging Africa’s youth through education and training could transform them from a challenge into a valuable asset for sustainable development.
Urpilainen emphasized the importance of education and engagement with African youth for economic growth, stability, and resilience.
Despite existing programs like Erasmus+, she highlighted the need to increase investment in initiatives like the EU Youth Action Plan to empower young African leaders and bridge the gap between intentions and actions in EU-Africa cooperation. Such investments not only benefit Africa but also enhance Europe’s global influence.
