According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, one of the key issues faced by young people in Kyrgyzstan is limited access to stable employment. Despite the fact that citizens aged 16 to 35 make up about 35% of the population and could become an important economic resource, many of them are unable to find work.
According to the Ministry of Social Development, the proper integration of youth into the workforce can significantly contribute to GDP growth, increased tax revenues, and the creation of new sectors in the economy. Otherwise, there is a rise in informal employment and external labor migration.
A study initiated by the Ministry of Labor, covering 2,500 employers and 50 educational institutions, revealed a number of issues related to youth employment.
The first identified factor is the structure of businesses. Approximately 83% of enterprises belong to the small business sector, which often lacks the resources for long-term mentoring and employee training. Employers generally seek specialists who are ready to start working immediately without the need for prolonged adaptation.
The second factor is the mismatch between the expectations of young people and the actual demand in the labor market. More than 75% of employers note a high interest among youth in information technology and digital professions; however, most jobs are concentrated in sectors such as trade, food production, and the textile industry. This leads to an imbalance: the supply from youth is focused in certain areas, while the demand from employers is in others.
The third barrier is the lack of practical skills. In some regions, more than 70% of companies report a lack of practical experience among applicants. Even having a diploma cannot compensate for the absence of skills in working with accounting systems, cost documentation, or contracts. Employers focus not on theoretical knowledge but on the ability to perform specific tasks.
Equally important is the aspect of expectations. Many young professionals expect a starting salary in the range of 60,000 to 80,000 soms, while small businesses offer a different model: gradual salary increases as experience is gained and necessary skills are mastered.
Thus, a vicious cycle arises: without experience, it is difficult to find a job, and without a job, it is impossible to gain experience.
