The AU Roadmap on Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth
The overall objective of the Roadmap is to guide and facilitate the implementation of the 2017 AU theme of the year. The Executive Council -in Decision No (XXII) ( EX. CL/DEC.742) of January 14, 2014- called on the member States, economic and regional groups and partners to recognize the demographic dividend in the economic and social development efforts on the continent through achievements, major milestones and concrete actions.
As stated in Decision No (ASSEMBLY / AU / DEC.601 (XXVl)) in particular, the Roadmap specifies under its pillars the necessary areas for major investments to enable countries to increase their capacity to harness the demographic dividend in the coming decades.
Under each pillar, the key investment procedures and areas are defined in alignment with the relevant AU strategic policy tools and frameworks. This is to enable countries to harness the demographic dividend and to ensure the full implementation of Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.
The AU Roadmap on Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investments in Youth is based on 4 key pillars:
Pillar (1): Employment and Entrepreneurship
Engage with private sector partners to expand internships, apprenticeships and on-the-job training opportunities for women and youth.
Engage African philanthropists, Chiefs Executive Officers (CEOs) and private sector to develop and support transformative youth development initiatives towards building entrepreneurial skills and capacities of African youth.
Promote Africa youth volunteer and Junior Professional Programmes and other internship opportunities to enhance capacity and grant exposure to young Africans in regional and international organizations.
Pillar (2): Education and Skills Development
Establish and strengthen regional educational institutions that create learning and exchange opportunities for students across Africa.
Pillar (3): Health and Well-Being
Raise awareness of reproductive health.
Promote the well-being of school youth and others.
Implement innovative programs to encourage behavioral change, using media and technology.
Pillar (4): Rights, Governance and Youth Empowerment
Institute youth leadership and empowerment trainings aimed at deepening Pan African ideals and aspirations in the youth.
