In southern Ethiopia, the public works employment service has engaged over 641,000 youths across 14 sectors. The region's Youth Affairs and Youth Employment Service Commission reported this figure. The initiative focuses on environmental protection and other key areas.
In Ethiopia's Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region, the public works employment program has involved numerous youths in various sectors. The Youth Affairs and Youth Employment Service Commission of the region announced that more than 641,000 youths have been engaged through this service.
Commissioner Marcos Mateos stated that the program operates in 14 distinct sectors, addressing environmental conservation efforts and challenges during crop seasons. The youths have participated extensively in soil and water conservation activities, measures to prevent soil erosion, and initiatives to enhance productivity. Additionally, they have been involved in constructing homes for vulnerable and displaced groups, developing new settlements and youth business centers, managing construction quality, and urban sanitation and beautification projects.
Under Phase 2 of the public works employment service, the goal was to benefit 1 million community members, but it has now reached 1.2 million people. This work has saved over 610 million Birr that would otherwise have been spent by the government and the community. Furthermore, the youths are raising awareness to ensure the upcoming general election remains peaceful, fair, and democratic by playing their roles effectively.
