Luanda: Entrepreneur Paulo Quaresma praised the Jovem+ Project as a strategic initiative that aims to empower the new generation and bolster the real economy.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the National Institute of Employment and Vocational Training (INEFOP) launched the Jovem+ Project in June of this year, with significant financial backing of $250 million from the World Bank. The initiative intends to benefit 500,000 young Angolans by 2030 by offering paid professional internships, which include a monthly stipend of 75,000 kwanzas.
Paulo Quaresma, speaking to ANGOP, highlighted the importance of this government-led initiative, which is spearheaded by the Ministry of Public Administration, Labor and Social Security (MAPTSS) through INEFOP. He emphasized its effectiveness in addressing unemployment and fostering youth entrepreneurship. He pointed out that technical training and improved access to job opportunities are critical in transforming the potential of Angolan youth into a catalyst for sustainable economic development.
Quaresma remarked that the Jovem+ Project arrives at a pivotal time to fulfill young people's aspirations, provided that its monitoring and execution are aligned with the actual demands of the job market. He noted that the key challenges include ensuring ongoing funding for self-employment projects, enhancing public-private partnerships, and expanding INEFOP's initiatives to rural areas.
He stressed the role of vocational training in bridging the gap between young people and the job market. For Quaresma, the technical skills acquired through such training enable young people to transition from "job seekers to job creators," potentially establishing small businesses.
Quaresma reiterated that entrepreneurship represents a viable alternative for Angolan youth, but it requires discipline, financial literacy, and management skills to build a sustainable business. He asserted that vocational training should be paired with business education to prepare young individuals for the global market's challenges.
From a strategic standpoint, Quaresma believes integrating youth into the productive sector is crucial for ensuring social stability and positioning Angola as a dynamic economic force in Africa. The Jovem+ Project aligns with the Angolan government's objectives to enhance human capital and foster the socio-economic inclusion of young people.
