• Zambia hosts first Industrial Skills Week Africa, Sept 9–10
• Event targets youth training for industrial jobs, innovation
• AUDA-NEPAD, AU back initiative to close Africa’s skills gap

Lusaka (Zambia) is hosting the first-ever Industrial Skills Week Africa (ISWA 2025) from Tuesday, September 9, to Wednesday, September 10. The event, held under the theme "Powering Africa's Industrial Future: Skills for Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability," aims to address the continent’s industrial skill gap.

Organized by the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) and the Zambian government, the conference brings together ministries, training institutions, private sector representatives, and international partners.

The event’s goal is to prepare Africa's youth and women for the industrial jobs of the future through sessions on innovation, technical training, and entrepreneurship. According to AUDA-NEPAD, sustainable industrialization requires a strong alignment between education and employment, in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and national policies. By hosting the event, Zambia has an opportunity to strengthen its own technical and vocational education and training (TVET) strategy.

Addressing Youth Unemployment

In Africa, 60% of the working-age population is under 25, according to a 2023 report from the United Nations Population Fund. A 2024 warning from the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlighted that more than one in four young people on the continent are not in employment, education, or training. Therefore, training young people in high-demand skills is crucial for reducing unemployment and supporting industrial growth.

"This is a moment to shine a light on Zambia’s youth, our training institutions, and the incredible innovations happening across the continent. We hope ISWA sets the tone for future engagement that centres African skills as the backbone of African industry," said Felix Mutati, Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science. 

The future of Africa's workforce depends on robust partnerships among governments, businesses, and educational institutions. Similar initiatives, such as community training hubs in Nigeria and skills centers in South Africa, demonstrate that investing in human capital drives employment and innovation. To sustain this momentum, policymakers must intensify practical training, promote the inclusion of youth and women, and better align education with the real needs of the industrial market.

Félicien Houindo Lokossou