UNICEF study unveils the social and economic aspirations of young people in Jordan

The nationally representative study reveals that from 2020 to 2021, while Jordan’s youth population is increasingly educated their transition to adulthood is not meeting their aspirations. The jobs that young people aspire to have are unattainable, leading to a challenging transition from school-to-work and delays in financial independence, marriage, and starting their own families.

“This critical phase of adolescence and young adulthood will shape the future of a generation and even the country. UNICEF will continue to work with the government of Jordan to engage all of Jordan’s vulnerable adolescent and young people in activities that will facilitate their social and economic engagement, with particular focus on young women.” said Tanya Chapuisat, Representative, UNICEF Jordan.

“Youth economic empowerment is a national priority that requires joint efforts from all sectors,” Said Mohammad Nabulsi, Minister of Youth, “The Ministry of Youth  has developed training programmes to enhance youth capabilities and entrepreneurial skills,  launched national leadership forums, localized youth initiatives in youth centers, sparing no effort in supporting young entrepreneurs, channeling their energies, and promoting their economic and social participation.”

The study, implemented by Saint Catherine University, generates evidence-based recommendations for policies and programmes. In addition to introducing young people to the benefits of different educational choices to help them achieve their aspirations, the study stresses the importance of stimulating labour demand, creating women-friendly workplaces and opening a greater variety of employment sectors to Syrians.

 This study is part of the evidence generation pillar of UNICEF’s Learning to Earning programme that aims to empower vulnerable youth in Jordan through formal and self-employment interventions, as well as digital skills and career counseling.

This intervention has been generously funded by the Government of Canada and the Government of the United States.

LINK to the ‘Youth and Social Economic Aspirations’ Study