EMPOWERING THE FUTURE: HOLISTIC REFORMS FOR GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT IN SOMALIA

Graduate unemployment is a critical and growing challenge in Somalia, where the youth unemployment rate exceeds 70%—one of the highest globally. This crisis poses serious socioeconomic risks, including deepening poverty, rising crime rates, and increasing social unrest. Despite the growing number of university graduates, many young Somalis remain excluded from formal employment opportunities due to a range of structural and institutional barriers.The root causes of graduate unemployment in Somalia are multifaceted. Key contributing factors include the country's fragile economic foundation, the mismatch between higher education outputs and labor market needs, inadequate vocational and skills training, and limited access to entrepreneurship support. Additionally, political instability and insecurity further constrain private sector growth and foreign investment, reducing the overall capacity of the economy to absorb skilled labor.Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach. Potential solutions include increased investment in quality education that aligns with market demands, expansion of vocational and technical training programs, and the promotion of entrepreneurship through targeted funding and mentorship. Government-led job creation initiatives, alongside private sector incentives and international development partnerships, are also vital for building sustainable employment pathways for graduates.This paper explores the drivers of graduate unemployment in Somalia and evaluates possible policy interventions to mitigate the problem. By adopting a holistic and inclusive strategy, Somalia can better harness the potential of its educated youth and lay the foundation for long-term economic growth and social stability