UNICEF Kenya Country Office – Evidence-Based Situation Analysis

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ABOUT PROJECT

The UNICEF Kenya Country Office has embarked on an evidence-driven journey to assess the landscape of adolescent and youth employability in Kenya. Within the framework of the Country Programme Agreement 2018 – 2022 and in collaboration with various implementing partners, UNICEF Kenya is committed to enhancing access to quality education, thereby equipping adolescents and youth with the skills needed to secure meaningful employment opportunities.

Project Scope:

  • Objective: To conduct an evidence-based situation analysis of adolescent/youth employability in Kenya, with a focus on ages 10-19, to inform evidence-driven policies, program development, and strategy.
  • Data Sources: A comprehensive blend of quantitative and qualitative data from surveys, research studies, policy documents, interviews, and focus group discussions.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborative partnerships with governmental bodies, educational institutions, NGOs, private sector entities, and youth representatives.
  • County Coverage: The study encompassed six diverse counties: Migori, Garissa, Nairobi, Turkana, Kwale, and Meru.

Key Outputs and Strategies:

ziziAfrique, the designated entity commissioned to conduct the analysis, delivered several critical outputs:

  1. Inception Report: A foundational document outlining key objectives, methodology, budget alignment, and work plan, serving as a reference point for monitoring quality and timeliness.
  2. SITAN Report: A comprehensive study report presenting a wealth of evidence generated through analysis and offering practical recommendations. The report is designed for high readability.
  3. Strategy Note: Synthesized evidence from the SITAN report to formulate actionable strategies for enhancing adolescent/youth employability. Strategies are categorized into short-term and long-term approaches, identified supportive factors, and addressed bottlenecks. These strategies are practical, cost-effective, scalable, and replicable across various Kenyan counties.

Study Approach:

The study adopted a mixed methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data. Key tasks encompassed literature reviews, curriculum assessments, stakeholder engagement, policy analysis, and identification of private sector opportunities. The study engaged with diverse stakeholders, including adolescents and youth, educational institutions, employers, government officials, and self-employed individuals.

Key Findings and Recommendations:

The study identified a range of barriers to youth employability, including limited access to quality education, early pregnancies, gender-based challenges, financial exclusion, health issues, poverty, substance abuse, and skills mismatches. While recognizing these challenges, the government has initiated various programs aimed at enhancing youth employability.

Recommendations:

  1. Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC): Ensure effective implementation of the competency-based curriculum to equip youth with relevant employability skills.
  2. Skills Alignment: Strengthen linkages between education, training, and the job market to ensure that youth are equipped with skills aligned with market demands.
  3. Digital Enablement: Invest in ICT to facilitate digital livelihoods and online freelancing opportunities for youth.
  4. Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training: Recognize the value of apprenticeships and on-the-job training as vital pathways to skill acquisition.
  5. Mentorship Services: Provide career guidance, counseling, and mentorship services in all educational institutions to help youth make informed career choices.
  6. TVET Promotion: Promote TVET institutions as attractive options for education and training.
  7. Entrepreneurship Integration: Integrate entrepreneurship education at all levels of the education system to foster a culture of self-employment and self-sufficiency.

In summary, the UNICEF Kenya Country Office’s evidence-based situation analysis lays the foundation for informed decision-making and targeted interventions that can usher in transformative change for Kenya’s adolescent and youth population, empowering them with the skills and opportunities needed for a brighter future.