Research summary
Sub-Saharan Africa has the world’s highest population growth rate, with the number of people in the region expected to double by 2050. Almost half of the region’s population is younger than 15. Sub-Saharan Africa is also urbanizing quickly. Exploring the relationship between youth and the new urban economy is critical to addressing issues of socio-political stability and sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa.
Dr. Grace Adeniyi-Ogunyankin, Canada Research Chair in Youth and African Urban Futures, is studying the impact of contemporary urban transformation on the identity, labour practices, psychosocial well-being and future orientation of African youth. Ultimately, Adeniyi-Ogunyankin and her research team will contribute to new perspectives on, and policy approaches to, African youth.