Volunteering Essential for Leadership Development in Africa

Georg Asamani, the Managing Director of the Project Management Institute (PMI) Sub-Saharan Africa, stated that volunteering can significantly enhance capability and leadership in Africa, especially among the youth. He noted that while volunteering is often perceived as an act of goodwill, it serves as a pathway for professional growth.

Asamani highlighted the critical issue of youth unemployment, with 10 to 12 million young Africans entering the job market each year, yet many face challenges due to a lack of experience and problem-solving skills. He pointed out that traditional career paths often do not provide the necessary range of experiences needed for rapid economic changes.

Asamani emphasized that when approached with the intent to help, volunteering can bridge the gap between education and employment, providing young people with real responsibilities and opportunities to develop their skills. He referenced PMI's contribution, where just 18,000 volunteers have shaped practices to build capability in the profession.