Kelem Ethiopia, with over two decades of experience in development and humanitarian works, has long believed that the future of the nation lies in its youth. Addressing the challenges faced by young people is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in national development.
With youth unemployment in Ethiopia estimated to be 27% and many more underemployed, the gap between potential and opportunity continues to widen. Illegal migration, human trafficking, addiction, and hopelessness have become the harsh realities faced by thousands of young Ethiopians. Kelem Ethiopia sees skills development as a powerful tool to mitigate the challenges and contribute to reversing this trend.
This year, as the world marks the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day on July 15, 2025, under the theme “Youth Empowerment through AI and Digital Skills,” Kelem Ethiopia is celebrating its ongoing efforts to equip young people with the employable skills and tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. With Ethiopia’s youth aged 15 to 24 making up nearly 39% of the population, which is more than 52 million young people, the importance of building their skills, confidence, and opportunities has never been more urgent.
In response to these challenges, Kelem Ethiopia established the Job-Oriented Youth Skills (JOYS) Center, a dedicated training hub designed to bridge the skills gap, encourage entrepreneurship, and build sustainable livelihoods. At our JOYS Center, young people receive hands-on training in areas such as electrical installation, plumbing, tiling, gypsum work, and garment making. The center doesn’t just teach technical skills—it instills a sense of purpose, vision, and hope.
“Kelem Ethiopia’s skills training empowers the youth to earn a living in their own communities.” – Mulumebet Demeke.
Mulumebet Demeke, coordinator of the training center, reflects on the impact of the program:
“Through the vocational skills training offered by Kelem Ethiopia, young people are empowered to earn a livelihood within their own communities. This not only equips them with practical skills but also steers them away from unproductive activities and reduces the risk of drug addiction and illegal migration.”
Early results from the JOYS Training Center have been promising. Close to 1,000 youths, many of them previously unemployed or exposed to the risks of illegal migration, have been trained so far among them, 10% are women. Based on early assessment conducted by Kelem Ethiopia, 44% have either found employment or started their own businesses, often by forming small enterprises with peers. Many of them are in the process of starting up of their business based on their skill. This shift is already having a tangible impact in both securing sustainable income and instilling hope for change.
For Kelem Ethiopia, As Mulumebet mentioned, youth empowerment goes beyond employment. It’s about cultivating a generation that is morally grounded, intellectually capable, and physically healthy. Mulumebet emphasizes the importance of nurturing youth with strong values and work ethics. She points out that youth make up the majority of Ethiopia’s population, and enabling this energetic and fresh force to join the workforce is key to breaking cycles of poverty and stagnation.
This year’s global theme, centered on AI and digital skills, also resonates deeply with Kelem’s mission. The organization is advocating for the integration of ethical and inclusive AI practices into Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). By combining traditional skills with future-oriented technologies, Kelem wishes to prepare youth not just for jobs, but for leadership in a digital economy.
As Kelem Ethiopia celebrates World Youth Skills Day, it calls on governments, educators, policymakers, tech developers, and communities to join hands in shaping a future where no young person is left behind. The organization believes in collaborative action to fund digital skills programs, share best practices, and uplift grassroots innovations that make a real difference in young people’s lives.
In partnership with other organizations that share and focus on environmental sustainability and youth engagement, Kelem Ethiopia continues to promote a holistic approach to development that includes job creation, social support, moral development, and environmental responsibility.
Looking ahead, Kelem Ethiopia remains committed to expanding its programs, advocating for more inclusive and accessible training, and ensuring that the needs of youth are met and valued.
Thanks to our donors, #Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ), #TERRA TECH Förderprojekte e.V., #Aktion Deutschland Hilft, Kelem Ethiopia is always ready to intervene and tackle youth issues. By equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive, the organization is not only transforming individual lives—it is helping to shape a brighter, more resilient Ethiopia.
