Abstract:
The United Nations defines the term “Youth” as group pf people between the
ages of 15 and 24. According the Department of Census and Statistics
unemployed is defined as a person who does not have a job for more than four
weeks and who is willing, available and is taking all the necessary actions to
find a job and ready to accept a job offer within two weeks. Unemployment is
considered as a multidimensional concept that integrates economic, political,
social dimensions. The purpose of this study, which was based on the research
problem of what factors affect rural youth unemployment in Ibbagamuwa
Divisional Secretariat Division, was to show how those factors affect rural
youth unemployment. Primary data was collected using a structured
questionnaire. Secondary data was collected using literature review and
google information. Convenience sampling methods were applied to
select 100 sample respondents from the Ibbagamuwa Divisional Secretariat
Division. Multiple Linear Regression model was used for analyzing data. This
research took six months to complete. Tables, graphs, maps were used to
present the data. Skills mismatches, including language, digital literacy affect
youth unemployment. The study also showed that young women, young
people with post-secondary education, vocationally trained, high levels of
language and digital literacy with young people are more likely to be
unemployed. Based on the findings of the study, the government and all
relevant institutions should expand higher education centers that help youth
acquire technical skills to create their own jobs. Furthermore, policy makers
are encouraged to rethink possible reforms in education and vocational
training system to improve the knowledge, skills, attitudes of young people.
