Creating a bridge for african youth

The young men and women of Africa who seek entry to the economy require a ‘bridge’ from where they are to where they want to be. This ‘bridge’ will assist them in stepping over the various barriers to entry into the economy. They also need to equip themselves with the mindset and skill set that will enable them to prosper in the era of the fourth industrial revolution. Youth Bridge Trust focuses efforts on impacting youth between the ages of 15-30 that live in rural and urban areas. Our focus areas are:

WORK READINESS PROGRAMME

Workforce readiness has long been a cornerstone of traditional education systems and development programs, instilling foundational skills such as time management, personal presentation, and attendance. The work readiness skills include both foundational cognitive skills and noncognitive skills or  soft skills, which are defined as personal characteristics and behavioural skills that enhance an individual’s interactions, job performance, and career prospects such as adaptability, integrity, cooperation, and workplace discipline. Through our FLFW programme we provide a foundation to individuals’ entry and ongoing success in the workplace, ranging from initial job search to maintaining continuous employment.

livelihood skills

The Fourth Industrial Revolution increases the need for “essential human skills” commonly referred to as “soft skills” that include creativity, complex problem solving, relationship building, communication, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. In addition, youth also note the growing need for courage, resiliency, adaptability, and resourcefulness. The FLFW programme offers livelihood skills which equip the youth to integrate and collaborate with internal and external workplace stakeholders. These skills include personal attributes, social skills, and communication abilities that support interpersonal relationships and interactions with others.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Entrepreneurial development today has become very significant in view of its being a key to economic development. The objectives of industrial development, regional growth, and employment generation depend upon entrepreneurial development. Entrepreneurs are, thus, the seeds of industrial development. The FLFW programme offers knowledge and abilities that support success in creating and building a workplace opportunity or idea for business start-ups.  

Connection to Further Educational Opportunities 

Research has shown that educational systems have not kept pace with the changing nature of work in Africa. There are gaps in technical skills such as STEM subject degrees but also in soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and punctuality. There are far more prospective workers than there are jobs available, and many youths are not able to afford to study further and become more specialised. This is where youth development programmes such as FLFW come in. FLFW offers young people work readiness programmes, opportunities to advance their education and make a difference in their communities changing Africa for the better.