Reham Al-Zugheir:-Jordan’s Challenges with Unemployment

 

August 21th 2022

 

CEO & Founder of C-Path

Businesswoman & Entrepreneur

 

With various root causes triggering the rise of unemployment rate in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, core measures need to be made and fundamental changes are necessary to gradually surpass this drastic challenge.

 

For over the years, the unemployment rate in Jordan has been escalating, especially among the youth. Standing at a 23.3% unemployment rate, the alarming number calls for significant actions and radical modifications. However, a thorough analysis is required to effectively understand, tackle, and solve the causes behind this major economic and social challenge. Solutions need to be constructed and designed through evidence-based policies and effective best practices.

 

Among the various causes unemployment rate is high is due to the lack of competitive skillsets that the youth need to receive and retain employment. There have been indications of gaps between the quality of education and what the professional world requires. Many young men and women are not receiving the professional skillsets required to meet standards and excel in their careers.

 

As a result, the demand for skillset development programs and centers is very high and effective to gradually improve labor skills. Through such programs, young men and women receive the right training and experience to evolve into competitive candidates in the labor force and be independently capable of managing their own businesses. Additionally, the lack of training centers in different Jordanian districts discourages young men and women to come Amman in order to enroll. Various barriers, like transportation, may come in their way. However, when training incubators are located in all districts to reach and train the youth living in these areas, then a higher number of participants can easily enroll. This will lead to an increase of young men and women with stronger professional skillsets across the country.

 

The youth make approximately 50% of the total unemployment rate; the participation rate of women in the labor force is 14.9%, compared to men, which is 53.1%, placing Jordan as one of the lowest countries in the world with women taking part in the labor force. Only 3% of companies have women in top management and 8% of businesses are led by women. Social norms and gender discrimination are the major reasons such numbers exist. However, with institutions and centers offering women empowering programs to boost their know-how, competitiveness, and skillset, then this rate can gradually decrease. Women are a force to empower as they are equally capable as men to excel in professional careers.

 

Providing qualified training centers, that cater to developing young men and women, can positively influence the unemployment rate. As there are other major aspects to consider for this nationwide challenge, training centers are a key, amongst the other keys, to unlock promising potentials, enhance career performances, and be behind the creation of job opportunities, a prosperous economy, and a thriving Jordan.