In an exclusive interview with Josephine Okojie, Michael Alasa, the dynamic CEO of Blakskill Limited, emphasizes an urgent call to action that many are hesitant to address: Africa, the continent with the world’s youngest population, is being left behind in the global talent race. With more than 60 percent of Africa’s people under 25, the continent is presented with an extraordinary opportunity—one that could reshape not just the future of Africa but the global workforce itself. However, Alasa warns, this potential is being neglected and, as a result, it is slipping away at an alarming rate.
“Africa’s youth are ready to lead, ready to innovate, ready to build the future,” Alasa says with conviction. “But instead of receiving the support and empowerment they need, they are caught in a system that offers them very little to thrive on.” The statistics tell a troubling story: across Africa, youth unemployment remains stubbornly high, and those who are employed are often underpaid or stuck in jobs that do not align with their qualifications or ambitions. Meanwhile, millions of others are leaving the continent in search of better opportunities abroad, contributing to what is increasingly becoming a brain drain.
The sheer numbers paint a picture of crisis. According to Alasa, the African continent is brimming with talent, but businesses around the world have not yet recognized this untapped resource. Instead, Africa continues to be seen as an afterthought in the global talent market, with many companies overlooking the vast pool of educated, skilled, and driven individuals who are capable of propelling industries forward. The lack of attention to Africa’s youth is a missed opportunity that could come at a high cost, not just for Africa but for the global economy.
“We need to ask ourselves: how many more of our youth will we lose before we wake up?” Alasa asks, reflecting on the urgency of the situation. “We can’t afford to wait. This is not just a missed opportunity; this is a crisis that is eroding Africa’s future and potential.”
Alasa’s message is clear: businesses and governments must invest in the youth of Africa if they want to unlock the full potential of the continent. He believes that the solution lies not in simply creating more jobs but in fostering an environment where young Africans can thrive. This includes providing access to education that aligns with the needs of a rapidly changing global economy, supporting entrepreneurial ventures, and ensuring that digital infrastructure is accessible to those who want to tap into the growing digital economy.
The power of Africa’s youth cannot be underestimated. In the past decade, Africa has become a hotbed for innovation, with young entrepreneurs and creators spearheading initiatives that challenge the status quo. Alasa points to the success of several African startups that have caught the attention of international investors and corporations, proving that the continent has the capability to compete on the global stage. But in order for this momentum to continue, a shift in perspective is needed. Africa cannot afford to be left out of the global conversation on talent. It must be seen as a vital hub for the future workforce, rather than as an afterthought.
Alasa’s vision for the future is one where Africa is not just a passive participant in the global economy but a central player in shaping its trajectory. This shift, however, will not happen overnight. It requires collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as a reimagining of how businesses engage with African talent. “We can’t keep waiting for the rest of the world to recognize us,” Alasa asserts. “We have to take the initiative and build the ecosystem that will enable our youth to succeed.”
Africa’s digital transformation is already underway, and the continent is home to a growing number of tech hubs, incubators, and accelerators that are nurturing young talent and driving innovation. However, Alasa stresses that this transformation must be inclusive. It must reach beyond the major cities and tap into the vast potential of rural and underserved areas. Only then can Africa fully leverage its human capital and position itself as a leader in the global talent market.
The time to act is now. As the world continues to face economic challenges and industries evolve at a rapid pace, Africa’s youth represent a beacon of hope for the future. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today, ready to take on the world and make a lasting impact. But in order for this to happen, businesses, governments, and organizations must step up and invest in the potential of Africa’s youth, ensuring they have the resources, support, and opportunities needed to succeed.
The cost of neglecting Africa’s youth is too high. The continent’s future is at stake, and so is the future of the global economy. If Africa is to secure its place in the global talent market, it must stop being an afterthought and start being seen as the powerhouse of innovation and growth that it truly is. The youth of Africa are ready, and now it’s time for the world to recognize their potential.
The world is watching, and Africa’s youth are poised for success. Will you be part of the movement that ensures they have the opportunity to lead? Join the conversation today at www.trendingnaijanews.com and stay updated on how businesses, governments, and individuals can work together to unlock Africa’s untapped potential. Sign up now to be at the forefront of a global shift.