Exploring the Root Causes of Youth Unemployment in the Gurage Zone, Central Ethiopia

Purpose: Unemployment presents a major macroeconomic challenge, with youth particularly vulnerable compared to adults. This study explores the root causes of youth unemployment in the Gurage Zone, Ethiopia, using a mixed-methods approach that integrates descriptive and explanatory designs with qualitative and quantitative analyses. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected through a multi-stage sampling technique from 417 selected youths, yielding 400 complete questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including cross-tabulation analysis, revealed key factors influencing youth unemployment: sex, age, migration status, educational attainment, maternal education level, access to credit, and training received. Broader structural causes include inflation, declining investment, political instability, skill mismatches, inadequate education curricula, a neglected agricultural sector, and limited financial resources. Findings: The study recommends enhancing education, increasing government investment in agriculture, improving political stability, expanding access to credit, and promoting self-employment initiatives. Priority sectors identified for youth employment include poultry, cattle, and sheep farming, cobblestone production, modern farming techniques, dairy and meat production, and irrigation development. Practical implications: Given the Gurage Zone’s limited industrial activity, targeted support from governmental and non-governmental organizations in these sectors could substantially reduce youth unemployment and drive sustainable regional development. Originality value: Establishing modern marketplaces and improving access to necessary inputs are also crucial.