Across East Asia and the Pacific (EAP), young people are transforming their lives and communities through greater access to skills, jobs, and new opportunities. From East Java in Indonesia to Lae in Papua New Guinea, the World Bank is working with governments and partners to create inclusive pathways for youth, focusing on job creation as a key driver of growth and poverty reduction. Efforts combine policy reforms, private sector engagement, infrastructure improvements, and targeted skills training, supported by research on technology’s impact on employment, youth unemployment challenges, and the need for labor market reforms.
In Papua New Guinea, the Urban Youth Employment Project is empowering young people to shape their futures. Karlin, once uncertain about her prospects, joined a training and internship program that led her to work in road and school construction—fields traditionally dominated by men—providing her family with financial stability. Gilchrist, who left school at 12, gained hands-on experience in electrical work and plumbing through a hotel job, eventually securing a permanent position and supporting his family.
In Indonesia, the Tourism Development Project is nurturing young entrepreneurs by blending cultural preservation with economic opportunity. In East Java, batik artist Yayak uses Tengger-inspired designs to celebrate heritage while building a livelihood. The program also trains young business owners in digital marketing, helping them engage customers online, create business profiles, and apply SEO strategies to reach wider markets.
Improved access to clean water and sanitation is also changing lives. In Lao PDR, facilities have been installed in 71 schools across 54 villages, benefiting over 7,700 children. In Papua New Guinea, the Water Supply and Sanitation Development Project has already given 5,000 people access to safe drinking water—reducing waterborne diseases and improving school attendance—and aims to reach 41,000 people by 2026.
Young people are also taking an active role in shaping development priorities. In June 2025, nearly 90 youth representatives from across the region met to discuss job creation, digital innovation, and climate resilience, proposing initiatives such as capacity-building programs and a regional youth innovation challenge. Country offices have hosted events to connect youth with the Bank’s mission and work—from discussions on macroeconomic trends with Renmin University students in China, to learning exchanges with Japanese students in Lao PDR, and project briefings for Miriam College graduates in the Philippines.
In Thailand, the 2025 Young Economist Contest encouraged students to explore the theme “Digital Thailand for the Youth.” Finalists presented their ideas at the World Bank’s Bangkok office, engaging with economists and learning about policy and development careers. With the country set to host the 2026 World Bank Group/IMF Annual Meetings, young voices are becoming increasingly influential.
Looking ahead, the World Bank’s report Future Jobs: Robots, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Platforms in East Asia and Pacific highlights both opportunities and challenges in the evolving job market. While digital-intensive sectors and gig economy work are growing—especially in China, Indonesia, and the Philippines—many young people still face a mismatch between their skills and labor market needs. Employers increasingly seek a mix of technical skills, like AI and data analysis, and soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, which are not always emphasized in formal education.
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