Critics argue that the current crisis is not just a result of slow job growth, but a failure of the education system and labor policies to adapt to the 21st century. They contend that universities are churning out graduates with outdated skills that are irrelevant to the modern digital economy. This perspective suggests that the government has failed to modernize curricula or foster partnerships with the private sector, leaving students with degrees that hold little value in the eyes of employers.
Furthermore, skeptics point to the rigidity of existing labor laws as a major deterrent for businesses. They argue that complex regulations make it difficult for companies to hire and fire employees, which discourages them from expanding their workforce even when they have the capital to do so. This creates a 'jobless growth' scenario where the economy expands in terms of output, but the number of formal, secure jobs remains stagnant. Critics believe that without fundamental labor reforms, the current cycle of unemployment will persist regardless of industrial policy.
There is also a strong argument that the government has neglected the informal sector, which employs the vast majority of the population. By focusing heavily on large-scale industrial projects, policymakers have overlooked the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises that are the true engines of job creation. Critics warn that ignoring these smaller businesses prevents the economy from becoming resilient and leaves millions of graduates with no choice but to accept precarious, low-paying work.
Ultimately, those questioning the current approach call for a radical overhaul of the education-to-employment pipeline. They advocate for decentralized, industry-led training models and a more flexible labor market that encourages entrepreneurship. Without these structural changes, they warn that the frustration of the youth will continue to boil over, leading to further social unrest and a potential brain drain as the most talented graduates look for opportunities abroad.