Indicator 8.b.1 Existence of a developed and operationalized national strategy for youth employment, as a distinct strategy or as part of a national employment strategy

Non-statistical indicator

Rwanda’s National Employment Policy (NEP) is a key instrument in achieving the ambitious goals outlined in the National Strategy for Transformation. Prioritize job creation as a cornerstone for inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.

Under the framework of the first National Strategy for Transformation (NST1 2017-2024), the NEP focused on addressing unemployment and underemployment, especially among youth and women, by promoting skills development, entrepreneurship, and private-sector growth. This effort was aligned with policies such as the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy and the Made in Rwanda Policy, which aimed to build a skilled workforce and support industrialization to boost job creation.

As Rwanda transitions tothe second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2 2024-2029), the NEP remains central to achieving the vision of a high-income economy by 2050. The policy emphasizes the creation of decent and productive jobs in sectors such as ICT, manufacturing, and the green economy, guided by the National Skills Development and Employment Promotion Strategy (NSDEPS). It also highlights inclusive employment strategies to ensure that vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and women, benefit equitably from economic growth opportunities.