Young people's career choices increasingly misaligned with national economic development needs - survey

RIGA - Young people's career choices are increasingly misaligned with the needs of national economic development, according to a survey carried out by the Latvian Education Accelerator.

The survey has found that young people are more likely to choose sectors with limited employment and growth potential. Around one fifth of respondents said that they would like to work in the creative industries, including art, design and music, even though these sectors contribute only a few percent to Latvia's gross domestic product. Meanwhile, 14 percent of young people would prefer a career in sports, regardless of its limited potential in the national economy.

At the same time, interest in sectors considered essential for economic growth and competitiveness has declined. Young people's interest in business, finance, economics and information and communication technologies - areas where the demand for labor is expected to grow in the future - has decreased compared to 2025.

The data also indicate that sectors such as manufacturing, transport and logistics, wood processing, forestry and energy are still undervalued among young people, despite their role in Latvia's economy and exports.

In addition, the survey's findings also highlight young people's low confidence in making the right career choices - only around 40 percent feel confident about their choices, while just under a quarter or 24 percent of young people have received individual career counselling. Most make decisions based on personal experience, family or peer advice.

The Latvian Education Accelerator is part of a World Economic Forum initiative that was launched in Latvia in 2023 to promote lasting changes in education and skills development by strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors.