World Bank urges shift from temporary jobs to skill-building public works

The World Bank is urging governments to revamp public works programmes, arguing that temporary, low-skilled jobs no longer address unemployment or skills gaps. In its new report, 'Innovations in Public Works,' the lender says traditional schemes fail to offer lasting economic benefits or pathways into stable employment.

The report recommends shifting towards programmes that build skills for a changing labour market shaped by digital technology and climate challenges. It identifies three focus areas: care services, digital work, and green jobs. Care-providing public works deliver services like childcare and elder care instead of just infrastructure. In Burkina Faso and Rwanda, childcare services have enabled more women to enter paid work while gaining caregiving skills. South Africa runs similar schemes for vulnerable groups.

Digital public works involve creating assets like maps and datasets. In Kenya, young people use smartphones to map buildings for urban planning. Mali and Tanzania use satellite images to trace infrastructure, while Sierra Leone digitises flood-risk data for disaster response. These programmes are accessible to women and youth because tasks can be done remotely.

Green public works focus on environmental protection. Examples include land restoration in India, coastal protection in Fiji, and flood control in Malawi. The programmes provide steady income while building skills in agriculture and environmental management.

The World Bank says countries investing in these forward-looking programmes unlock greater value from public spending, protect vulnerable people short-term, and prepare workers for future jobs.

SOURCE: https://guardian.ng/appointments/world-bank-calls-for-revamp-of-employment-schemes/