Young people across the country are increasingly facing serious challenges in securing employment as rapid technological advancement continues to transform the job market.

The article explains that although technology was expected to create more opportunities, it has instead contributed to rising youth unemployment due to automation, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation across various industries.

Many traditional entry-level jobs in sectors such as retail, manufacturing, customer service, and administration have been reduced or fully replaced by automated systems, limiting pathways that previously helped young people gain work experience.

At the same time, new technology-based roles are emerging, but they require specialised skills such as software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and digital marketing, which many young job seekers do not yet possess.

The mismatch between education systems and labour market demands is highlighted as a key issue, with many schools and training institutions still using outdated curricula that do not reflect current technological realities.

Employers are also increasingly prioritising experienced workers and candidates with strong digital literacy, making it even harder for fresh graduates to enter the job market.Additionally, unequal access to technology and quality internet further disadvantages youths from low-income backgrounds.

The article warns that prolonged unemployment among young people may lead to long-term consequences such as reduced lifetime earnings, limited economic mobility, and mental health challenges.

To address these issues, stakeholders including government, private sector, and education institutions are encouraged to invest in vocational training, digital skills development, internships, and apprenticeships.Stronger collaboration between employers and educators is also recommended to ensure that training aligns with labour market needs.Without urgent action, the technology-driven shift may continue to widen the employment gap for young people.