A non-governmental organisation, The Ichikowitz Family Foundation; and global PSB Insights, have urged policymakers around the world to listen to the voices of the youths in Africa.
According to both organisations, given that Africa is projected to reach 4.2 billion, which is 40 per cent of the world’s population, how the world responds to their yearnings will shape the future of the planet.
While announcing the commissioning of the African Youth Survey 2024, Chairman of the Ichikowitz Family Foundation, Ivor Ichikowitz, said: “One of the most important demographic shifts happening across the world today is Africa’s burgeoning youth population.
“Our continent’s total population stands at 1.4 billion; and by 2050, it will add another billion people, by which time young Africans will constitute the world’s largest source of labour. By the end of the century, the population in Africa is projected to reach 4.2 billion – representing 40 per cent of the world’s population – and most of them will be in their twenties.
“It has never been more important that policymakers around the world understand and listen to the voices of Africa’s youth. Whether on natural resource economics, the tangible impacts of climate change, efforts to combat disease, or to preserve democracy – these are all areas in which global engagement will be absolutely critical. Through the African Youth Survey, Africa’s youth are voicing their ambitions and challenges. How the rest of the world responds will shape the future of our planet.”
Also, a Vice President and the research lead at PSB Insights, Cole Ryan, said: “We are thrilled to once again partner with the Ichikowitz Family Foundation for the African Youth Survey 2024. This survey is more than just a collection of data; it’s an opportunity to hear directly from Africa’s youth and understand their perspectives on a range of critical issues. Their voices will not only shape the future of Africa but also have significant implications for the rest of the world.
“By commissioning the African Youth Survey 2024, we are not just gathering interesting research; we are amplifying the voices of Africa’s youth to steer global discourse and action. This survey is a testament to our commitment to understanding and harnessing the aspirations, challenges, and true dynamism of Africa’s young population. Through the study, we are presenting a roadmap for action, where we can transform these insights into policies and strategies that will propel the African continent and its people forward.”
The 2024 Survey builds on the success of the previous waves of research, conducted in 2020 and 2022, which highlighted key concerns among young Africans regarding infectious diseases such as COVID-19, security and conflict, the economy, climate, and other topline issues.
The poll was conducted one on one as over 15,000 were interviewed and a total of 25 countries polled so far since the inception of the African Youth Survey in 2020.
The 2024 study will touch on a wide range of topics relevant to youth today, including employment, security, emigration, foreign relations, climate change, democratic values, social justice, social media, and technology.
