The project “Strengthening O-Joven: Technical Training, Labor Demand, and Youth Employment in Arequipa, Peru” is a collaborative initiative led by faculty at Utah Valley University in partnership with Universidad La Salle and the Instituto de Gobierno y Desarrollo Humano (IGDH) in Peru. Focused on the development of the O-Joven Observatory, the project leverages data-driven approaches to better understand the alignment between technical education systems and labor market demands in the Arequipa region. By identifying gaps in skills development and employment opportunities for youth, the initiative aims to support more effective school-to-work transitions and inform sustainable, evidence-based policy solutions.
Aligned with the UNESCO Chair’s mission on AI and Environmental Stewardship for Sustainable Futures, the project advances Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). It integrates applied research, cross-cultural collaboration, and hands-on student engagement, with students from both institutions contributing to data validation, indicator design, and platform development. Through these efforts, the project not only strengthens regional capacity in Peru but also provides meaningful experiential learning opportunities, fostering globally minded graduates equipped to address complex development challenges.
