The annual UF (Ung Företagsamhet) fair was held in Bollnäs on Tuesday, showcasing youth entrepreneurship as a potential solution to regional unemployment challenges. According to Arbetsförmedlingen statistics cited by SVT Gävleborg, 10.4 percent of young people aged 18-24 are unemployed in the Gävleborg region.
UF, which stands for youth entrepreneurship, provides opportunities for young people to create their own businesses as part of many high school education programs. At the Bollnäs event, SVT interviewed participating youth about their future prospects and views on solving youth unemployment.
Not many have several years of work experience when they finish high school
Sandra Henriksson, 18, runs a UF business baking and selling bread from Hälsingland. She believes the key to addressing youth unemployment is simply giving young people a chance. "Not many have several years of work experience when they finish high school," she said.
Gusten Norling, 17, was also present at the arena in Bollnäs with his UF company selling 3D printed storage solutions. He emphasized the importance of summer jobs as a pathway into working life. "We need to open up more job opportunities - many are looking for jobs but don't get any," said Norling.
We need to open up more job opportunities - many are looking for jobs but don't get any
The event highlighted how youth entrepreneurship programs are being promoted as one approach to addressing employment challenges facing young people in the region.