ALU 2025 Africa Workforce Readiness Survey Report

Unlocking the Future of Africa’s Workforce

The ALU 2025 Africa Workforce Readiness Survey is a comprehensive study exploring the aspirations of young Africans regarding higher education and their future careers, alongside employers’ expectations of graduates and educational institutions. Conducted between March 15 and June 13, 2024, the survey gathered responses from 3,927 employers and 3,853 school leavers across nine African countries: Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
Using a combination of in-person and online methodologies, participants completed concise surveys tailored to capture meaningful insights in under three minutes online or five minutes in person. With multiple sampling techniques, the survey ensured representative data reflecting varying economic and social contexts across Africa’s key job markets.

The report offers a valuable lens into how long standing trends and technological shifts are contributing to a skills mismatch across the continent. By understanding both the ambitions of young Africans and the needs of employers, this survey sheds light on how we can bridge these gaps, reduce unemployment, and support thriving businesses and economies.
It is a call to action for educators, policymakers, and business leaders to better equip Africa’s youth with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to thrive in an evolving job market.

Survey

Highlights

What Students Want

88% plan to pursue higher education, driven by passions and the desire to contribute to their country’s development.
67% feel optimistic about finding a job post-education, but 51% are concerned about job availability.
Top sectors of interest: Engineering, Banking & Financial Services, Technology, and Public Service.
Gaining work experience is a top priority for 51% of prospective students when choosing a university.

What Employers Need

Only 51% rate recent graduate skills as very good or excellent.
Employers seek communication, innovation, and analytical thinking skills.
71% are more likely to hire graduates with practical work experience.
Top areas for higher education improvement: Leadership development, technical skills, and employer partnerships.

Global Challenges
& AI’s Impact

63% of students and 65% of employers remain optimistic about Africa's economy.
AI presents both opportunities and risks: 54% of employers see AI as an opportunity, but 51% believe it may reduce future employment opportunities.
The need for continuous reskilling is clear—53% of employers agree workers will need to reskill multiple times throughout their careers.

0 %

of students plan to study abroad, and 34% do not plan to stay in Africa after completing their education.

0 %

of employers express concern over the loss of talent.

Key Recommendations for a Stronger Workforce

Respond to Employer Needs:
Prioritize both soft skills and technical abilities.
Align Curriculum with Career Aspirations:
Expand academic offerings in fast-growing sectors and embed digital skills.
Enhance Work-Based Learning:
Partner with industry for internships and real-world projects.
Foster Public-Private Collaboration:
Invest in faculty training and digital infrastructure.
Assess Progress:
Continuously gather employer insights to close skills gaps.

View the Full Report

Discover the full findings, insights, and actionable recommendations for reshaping Africa’s education and workforce landscape.

African Leadership University is higher
education for a higher purpose.

Download our 2023 Impact Report

ABOUT ALU

Get ready to lead
Africa forward.

WHY ALU

STUDY AT ALU

STORIES

APPLY
NOW