Guyana: Youth Unemployment in Guyana Decreases Significantly

Youth unemployment in Guyana has seen a notable decline, dropping from 31.9 percent in the third quarter of 2021 to 12.1 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024. This information was shared by Chief Statistician Errol La Cruez during his message for World Population Day 2026. La Cruez emphasized the significance of utilizing reliable data to inform education, training, and employment policies.

The report indicates that young individuals are finding employment not only in traditional sectors but also in emerging areas of the economy. The Bureau of Statistics reported that wholesale and retail trade, construction, public administration, manufacturing, and education collectively account for 60.5 percent of youth employment.

Additionally, there has been a 56.7 percent increase in the number of youths in the labor force holding a bachelor’s degree or equivalent between the third quarter of 2021 and the fourth quarter of 2024. Concurrently, the percentage of youths not engaged in education, employment, or training decreased from 35.7 percent to 25 percent.

La Cruez noted that these advancements highlight the necessity of aligning educational and vocational training with the evolving demands of the economy. The broader labor market in Guyana has also shown improvement, with the national unemployment rate falling from 14.5 percent in 2021 to 6.8 percent in 2024. During this period, the number of employed individuals increased by 122,389, rising from 246,881 to 369,270.

The Chief Statistician also pointed out changes in Guyana’s population profile, with the 2022 Census recording a population of 878,674, reflecting a 17.63 percent increase since the 2012 Census. By the end of 2024, the population was estimated at 956,044, and updated projections suggest it surpassed one million by the end of 2025, reaching 1,025,334.

La Cruez highlighted that Guyana remains a youthful nation, with 42 percent of the population under the age of 25 as of the end of 2025. This figure rises to 61 percent when considering those under 35 years old. He stated that this youthful demographic presents opportunities for workforce expansion, innovation, and economic and social development. However, population growth also heightens the demand for housing, healthcare, education, transportation, utilities, and jobs.

Preliminary data from the 2022 Census indicate improvements in household living conditions and access to essential services over the past decade, including potable water, electricity, internet connectivity, land ownership, and vehicle ownership. La Cruez asserted that sustainable development should be evaluated not only by job creation and income but also by access to services that foster healthy, connected, and secure lives. The Bureau of Statistics reiterated that reliable data is crucial for anticipating future demands, identifying emerging trends, and assisting policymakers in directing resources effectively.

Source: hgptv.com