Let youth define workplace future, Kindiki tells employers
Kindiki said both the government and the private sector are more effective when they work together to create an environment that allows modern workers to showcase their skills and talents for the continent’s progress.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged African employers to embrace young people and give them space to drive the transformation businesses need to meet 21st-century demands.
Kindiki said both the government and the private sector are more effective when they work together to create an environment that allows modern workers to showcase their skills and talents for the continent’s progress.
“Together, let us envision and create an Africa where every individual has a place to thrive, where no one is excluded, and where business stands as the most dynamic driver of social transformation and shared prosperity,” he said.
The DP was speaking on Monday when he officially opened the Africa Employers Summit in Nairobi, where he highlighted the central role of youth in shaping enterprises into 21st-century-compliant institutions. He also stressed the need to include women and persons with disabilities in this transformation journey.
“Africa of the 21st century will be powered by young people, where technology and public-private partnership will also define our success. It is the Africa we must dream of and actualise in our lifetime. It is possible to transform Africa in our time,” he said.
The DP further emphasized stronger collaboration with the private sector to address challenges such as unemployment and other social issues.
“We need the private sector to transform policy to practical jobs and income opportunities. We also need the private sector to augment our interventions and offer the requisite community support so that the social aspects such as mental health and wellness, including sports and recreation, and rehabilitation facilities, are simultaneously available, especially for our young people,” he said.
He added that employers must adapt to changing expectations of the younger workforce, who are seeking flexibility rather than rigid workplace traditions such as suits and ties.
“Youthful workers are asking employers for greater flexibilities at the workplace, and therefore the era of tie-and-suit-wearing workers could be coming to an end. That's what the young people are demanding; that you don't need a tie to be productive," said Kindiki.
