Determinants of Youth Unemployment in the Gurage Zone, Ethiopia: A Socio-Economic Analysis
Purpose: The objective of the study is to identify key determinants such as gender, age, migration status, education level, household size, and access to credit, and how these factors influence youth employment outcomes. Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with 400 youth participants and qualitative interviews with 48 participants, along with 24 participants in focus group discussions (FGDs). Findings: The findings reveal several socio-economic factors that significantly affect youth unemployment in the region. Gender disparities were apparent, with females experiencing higher unemployment rates than males. Additionally, younger youth (ages 15–19) had higher unemployment rates compared to older youth (ages 20–24). Youth with lower educational attainment were more likely to remain unemployed. Migration status, family size, and access to credit were also identified as crucial factors influencing employment outcomes. Migrants, youth from larger households, and those without access to credit faced greater barriers to employment. Furthermore, access to training and skill development programs emerged as a key factor in improving youth employability. PracticalImplications: The study recommends policy interventions focused on educational reforms, expansion of vocational training, and enhancing access to financial resources for youth entrepreneurs. These measures are essential in addressing youth unemployment in Ethiopia and promoting long-term economic growth in the region. Originality/Value: Youth unemployment poses a significant socio-economic challenge in developing countries, and Ethiopia faces particularly high levels of unemployment among its youth. This study investigates the demographic and socio-economic factors influencing youth unemployment in the Gurage Zone, Central Ethiopia.