The Vice President of Agriculture, Human and Social Development at the African Development Bank, Jennifer Blanke, says the COVID-19 pandemic has reminded countries and development partners of fragile health systems and the limited social services availability to support citizens during crises.
In addition to the infrastructures required to respond to future pandemics, Blanke emphasizes the necessity to begin training Africa's next generation of medical experts, doctors, nurses and health professionals now. She says Africa should also consider a renewed push to develop the continent's pharmaceutical industry.
Blanke further reminds viewers that while 13 million youth enter Africa's workforce each year, only 3 million jobs exist for them in the formal sector, largely due to skills gaps, and therefore urges countries for increased attention to this widespread concern.
She says while developing youth skillsets, countries should consider mobile health innovations, for example, as a way to leapfrog and meet the current needs of Africa's populations.
For more on the "Road to the 2020 Annual Meetings: A conversation with Jennifer Blanke," click here.
