The issue of youth employment in Kyrgyzstan remains relevant, despite the fact that young people aged 16 to 35 make up about 35% of the population and represent an important economic resource.
According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, with the proper integration of youth into the labor market, it is possible to accelerate economic growth, expand the tax base, and create new sectors. Otherwise, there is an increase in informal employment and external labor migration.
A recent study commissioned by the Ministry of Labor among 2,500 employers and 50 educational institutions revealed a number of serious problems in the field of youth employment.
Firstly, the structure of business in the country. Approximately 83% of enterprises belong to the small segment, which limits their capacity for long-term mentoring and internal training. Employers need employees who can immediately engage in the work process without a lengthy adaptation period.
Secondly, there is a mismatch between the expectations of youth and the actual demand in the labor market. More than 75% of employers note that young people are actively interested in IT and digital technologies; however, most jobs are created in sectors such as trade, food industry, and textiles. Thus, young specialists are looking for work in one area, while employers need workers in another.
The third significant barrier is the lack of practical skills. In some regions, over 70% of companies report a lack of practical experience among candidates. Having a diploma does not always mean the ability to work with necessary software, budget documentation, or contracts. Employers focus more on the ability to solve specific tasks than on theoretical knowledge.
Expectations of youth are also important. Many young specialists aim for a starting salary in the range of 60,000 to 80,000 soms, while small businesses offer a different model — gradual salary increases as skills are acquired.
Thus, a vicious circle is formed: the lack of experience complicates employment, and without a job, it is impossible to gain experience.
