According to the research "Employability of Young Brazilians", carried out by CIEE in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Employment, about 7,1 million young people between 14 and 24 years old neither work nor study. The sample included 34 million respondents, and despite the alarming numbers, there are promising signs for the future
When comparing the first quarter of 2023 with that of 2024, there was a 37% increase in the number of interns in the country. For Ana Paula Prado, CEO of Infojobs, HR Tech, leader in technology for HR, the increase of these professionals in the job market is a direct reflection of the expansion of opportunities that companies offer: "When we analyze the data released, 51% of interns work in private companies, despite also observing an increase in the public sector. Giving learning opportunities to the younger ones not only strengthens professional qualification, but also ensures that the sectors remain updated and innovative
According to data from IBGE, in comparison to the years 2019 and 2024, there was a drop of 0,8% in the number of "neither-nor" youth. Although the decrease in this number is a positive thing, it is necessary that efforts to integrate the new generation into the market, continue to be made. Among the actions promoted by Infojobs, the online and free event "Infojobs Boosts Students" is specific for high school and college students to ask questions about how to enter the job market. "It is essential that young people have space to develop in personal and professional areas", and, it's thinking about that, that we are constantly creating opportunities for entering the job market to be increasingly easier, Prado states
According to the research, there are some challenges to be faced, once that, among the so-called "neither-nor" (4,6 million, 65% are women, most with small children. This gender disparity was also analyzed in a survey released by Infojobs in May of this year: 86% of professionals feel that the topic of motherhood is often viewed negatively in the professional environment, and 74% either left or at least thought about leaving work to take care of their children
For Ana Paula Prado, it is crucial for companies to create policies supporting maternity and paternity, promoting an inclusive and balanced environment. "The implementation of support programs", as extended parental leave, flexible hours and remote work options, can help reduce this disparity and allow more women to stay and thrive in the labor market,"affirms the specialist
"The reduction in the number of 'neither-nor' youth is an important step for Brazil's socioeconomic development". It is necessary to continue investing in education, training and generation of opportunities, to include young people in activities of greater technical and technological concentration. By including diverse groups, we can reduce the weight of inequality, and ensure a better future for our youth, tells Ana Paula Prado
Where to start
Today, the increase of apprentices in the market is concentrated in the roles of administrative assistants, production feeders, logistics assistants and cashiers. Despite, mostly, there will be positions that require some education, they are not positions that help young people think about a career path, they offer support for long-term professional growth
To change the current scenario and allow for the future, our young people have opportunities to be well-rounded professionals, we need to implement training and development programs that not only prepare young people for their current roles, but also help them develop skills in areas of future interest. For Generation Z, it is essential to visualize a clear path for the advancement of your careers, "so investing in mentoring and guidance programs is essential", explain Ana Paula.
Furthermore, encouraging apprentices and interns to gain experience in different departments can provide a broader view of corporate operations, helping young people identify areas where they want to pursue a career.
It is crucial to ensure that young people,regardless of their socioeconomic background, have access to development opportunities. "Inclusion and diversity policies must be reinforced", and the appreciation of beginner labor should be encouraged. Allowing the new generation to integrate work environments is the only way to change the current scenario and ensure that, in the future, our young people can become complete and fulfilled professionals, concludes.
