ACET Economist Job Opportunity: Join the Youth Employment and Skills Team at the African Center for Economic Transformation @the African Center for Economic Transformation

The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) is inviting applications for the position of Economist – Youth Employment and Skills (YES), offering professionals the opportunity to contribute to research and policy initiatives aimed at transforming Africa’s economies and improving employment outcomes for young people.

This role provides a unique opportunity to work with leading economists and policy experts, including the Youth Employment and Skills team led by Mona Iddrisu, who are actively shaping policies and research on labor markets, education systems, and youth employment across Africa.

Based in Accra, Ghana, with remote work flexibility, this position allows candidates to work at one of Africa’s most respected policy institutes dedicated to driving sustainable economic transformation on the continent.

About the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET)

The African Center for Economic Transformation is a leading pan-African economic policy institute that works to promote long-term economic growth and development across Africa. The organization produces research, provides policy advice, and collaborates with governments, private sector actors, and development partners to support inclusive economic transformation.

Founded in 2008, ACET focuses on developing African-led solutions to the continent’s economic challenges. Its work spans several key policy areas including economic management and governance, private sector development, regional integration, gender equality, and youth employment.

Through its research and advisory services, ACET has supported numerous African governments and institutions in designing and implementing policies that promote sustainable growth and improved livelihoods.

About the Youth Employment and Skills (YES) Program

The Youth Employment and Skills program at ACET focuses on addressing one of Africa’s most pressing development challenges: the growing gap between education systems and labor market needs.

The program conducts research and policy analysis to help governments identify solutions that improve employment outcomes for young people. Its work includes analyzing labor market trends, evaluating education and training systems, and identifying sectors with strong job creation potential.

The YES program also engages youth organizations, policymakers, and development partners in dialogue and collaboration to develop evidence-based policies that strengthen Africa’s workforce.

Role Overview: Economist – Youth Employment and Skills

The Economist will work closely with the Head of the YES program and other researchers to conduct economic research and policy analysis related to youth employment, education systems, and labor market dynamics across sub-Saharan Africa.

The successful candidate will contribute to ACET’s mission by producing research, analyzing economic trends, and supporting projects that influence policy reforms aimed at improving employment opportunities for young people.

This role is ideal for professionals with strong analytical skills and a passion for economic research, policy development, and development economics.

Key Responsibilities

The Economist will undertake several responsibilities within the Youth Employment and Skills team.

The role involves conducting research and analytical work on economic issues affecting youth employment, education systems, and labor markets across Africa.

The selected candidate will gather and analyze datasets, develop research databases, and support data-driven policy analysis.

The economist will also prepare reports, research publications, and presentations that communicate findings to policymakers, governments, and development partners.

Another key responsibility includes supporting collaborative research initiatives and contributing technical expertise to projects within the YES program.

In addition, the economist may serve as a spokesperson representing ACET in policy discussions, conferences, and engagements with stakeholders working on economic transformation and youth development.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Applicants interested in the Economist position should meet the following requirements.

Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Economics or Statistics, preferably with specialization in areas such as labor economics, development economics, macroeconomics, or education policy.

Applicants should have at least five years of relevant professional experience, particularly in research or policy analysis related to labor markets, education systems, or economic development.

Strong quantitative and analytical skills are essential for the role, including experience with statistical and econometric analysis.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in analytical tools such as STATA, EViews, R, or SAS, along with strong knowledge of Microsoft Office tools.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are also required, as the role involves translating complex research findings into accessible insights for policymakers and stakeholders.

Fluency in English is required, while knowledge of French will be considered an advantage.

Why Work at ACET

Working at ACET provides professionals with the opportunity to contribute to impactful research and policy work that influences economic development across Africa.

Employees collaborate with leading economists, researchers, and development experts, gaining exposure to major policy discussions shaping Africa’s future.

The organization is also known for its collaborative work environment and commitment to advancing African-led solutions to development challenges.

Joining the Youth Employment and Skills team offers the chance to contribute directly to solutions that address youth unemployment, one of the continent’s most pressing economic issues.

Application Deadline

Applicants are advised to consult the official vacancy page for the latest information regarding the application deadline and submission requirements.

Early applications are strongly encouraged as recruitment processes may close once suitable candidates are identified.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare a CV and a cover letter explaining why they are suitable for the position.

Applications should be submitted via email to the address provided on the official vacancy page.

For more details about the role and application requirements, visit the official opportunity page.

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