Cameroonian politician Bello Bouba Maigari condemns the high unemployment rate among educated youth, calling it a national scandal and urging urgent reforms.
A Strong Criticism of Youth Unemployment
Bello Bouba Maigari, a veteran Cameroonian politician and leader of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (NUDP), has raised his voice against the alarming rate of youth unemployment in the country. In a recent statement, he described the situation as a “scandal”—emphasizing the paradox of young people spending years in school only to graduate and face joblessness.
His remarks resonate with millions of families who continue to invest heavily in education, hoping for a brighter future for their children. Instead, many young graduates find themselves idle, underemployed, or forced into the informal economy.
The Struggle of Educated Youth
Youth unemployment remains one of Cameroon’s most pressing social challenges. While universities and vocational schools produce thousands of graduates every year, the job market has failed to absorb them. Many young people are left wandering the streets, seeking opportunities that rarely exist.
This not only affects their personal growth but also undermines national development. A generation without access to stable employment risks falling into cycles of poverty, frustration, and even social unrest.
Bello Bouba’s Call for Change
In his statement, Bello Bouba called for urgent reforms to address the crisis. He stressed the need to:
- Create an enabling environment for job creation.
- Encourage investment in industries that can absorb young workers.
- Develop strong vocational training programs aligned with the needs of the labor market.
- Promote entrepreneurship among youth by providing access to funding and mentorship.
According to him, the country cannot afford to waste the potential of its educated youth, who represent both the present and the future of Cameroon.
Citizens React
Many Cameroonians welcomed Bello Bouba’s words, describing them as a reflection of the everyday struggles of young people. Social media platforms were filled with comments from graduates expressing frustration over years of studies that have not translated into decent jobs.
However, critics argue that political leaders—including Bello Bouba himself—have long been part of the system that contributed to the crisis. They insist that speeches must now be followed by real action and bold policies.
The Way Forward
Addressing youth unemployment in Cameroon requires a multi-faceted approach. Beyond political declarations, it will take concrete investment in education, infrastructure, and job-creating sectors such as agriculture, technology, and manufacturing.
If the concerns raised by Bello Bouba Maigari translate into national debate and practical reforms, they could mark a turning point in the fight against youth joblessness. For now, his statement remains a powerful reminder that a nation cannot prosper while its young graduates are left to struggle in the streets.