WORLD - According to data cited by the World Bank, around 1.2 billion young people in developing and emerging economies are expected to reach working age over the next 10 to 15 years.
However, only about 400 million jobs are projected to be created during the same period, raising major concerns about the future of employment.
This gap is intensifying global discussions on how economies can generate sufficient job opportunities in the age of rapid technological transformation, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
AI is transforming work but not automatically creating jobs
Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries by increasing productivity, reducing costs, and accelerating decision-making processes. However, experts argue that technology alone does not generate employment.
While AI can optimize existing systems, it does not inherently create livelihoods. Jobs emerge when individuals and institutions actively use technology to build businesses, address real needs, and develop new markets.
Entrepreneurship as the key driver of job creation
Recent analysis suggests that the “next billion jobs” will not come directly from algorithms, but from entrepreneurs who leverage AI and digital tools to build scalable enterprises.
Entrepreneurs play a critical role in translating innovation into employment by identifying local challenges, creating services, and expanding economic participation, especially in emerging markets.
SMEs remain the backbone of global employment
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for approximately 90% of businesses worldwide and 70% of global employment, according to World Bank estimates.
These businesses are often more flexible and better adapted to local realities. They are essential in sectors such as healthcare, education, logistics, agriculture, and digital services, where they help absorb labor and stimulate economic activity.
Structural challenges: skills, access, and governance
Experts emphasize that job creation in the AI era depends on three key factors:
Skills development: Education systems must move beyond traditional models and focus on adaptability, digital literacy, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking.
Access to resources: Entrepreneurs need reliable infrastructure, financing, digital tools, and market access to build sustainable businesses.
Governance frameworks: Clear and supportive regulations are necessary to reduce barriers to entry and encourage innovation and formal economic participation.
A shift in global investment priorities
Despite the growth of AI and innovation sectors, much global investment continues to flow into capital-intensive industries that do not necessarily generate large-scale employment.
This mismatch highlights the need for investment strategies that prioritize job creation and inclusive economic participation, particularly in developing regions.
While AI and advanced technologies are reshaping the global economy, they do not replace the human role in creating opportunity.
Ultimately, experts argue that algorithms may shape the future of work, but entrepreneurs will shape the future of jobs, turning technological potential into real economic impact and employment.
