State of the Field Report: Youth Workforce Development

These programs typically include vocational training, entrepreneurship training, job matching, and mentoring. Research suggests that YWD programs have a positive impact on employment and earnings, particularly for low-income, rural, and out-of-school youth. Studies indicate that participation in YWD programs improves employment outcomes and increases earnings for these target populations. The programs also foster skills development, including vocational skills, interviewing, and job search support. Entrepreneurship interventions show gains in customer service, marketing, and record-keeping, as well as life skills such as a positive work ethic and financial literacy. Re-enrollment in education is another area of focus for YWD programs. Research suggests that some youth who participate in these programs may re-enroll in basic education programs or continue their learning in vocational training programs. However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these programs in promoting re-enrollment. Policy changes and institutional capacity building are also essential for the success of YWD programs. The evidence suggests that favorable changes in policy can support youth-focused programming and institutional capacity development. However, more research is needed to understand the impact of policy reform and institutional capacity development on the sustainability of workforce development programs. Four areas require further research to determine the effectiveness of YWD programs. These areas include: - Determining the essential components for workforce development programs to be successful and identifying the most cost-effective mix of components. - Investigating the life skills youth need for employment and entrepreneurship, as well as the specific links between these skills and acquisition of employment and increased earnings. - Examining the cost-effective ways to achieve scale and sustainability in youth workforce development. - Understanding the impact of policy reform and institutional capacity development on the sustainability of workforce development programs. USAID is committed to advancing the YWD evidence base and taking the issues addressed in this report to the next stage of development.