Dealing with Elusive Futures - University Graduates in Urban Africa

The contributors challenge social actors and social scientists to depict young men and women's future-creating activities in urban contexts of sub-Saharan Africa, providing a vivid picture of their strategies to socially grow older by doing adulthood in contexts of uncertainty.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

The future, both in terms of its arrival and its exploration, remains a tantalizingly elusive concept for social actors and social scientists alike. In response to this challenge, the contributors have taken up the task of portraying the activities of young men and women in urban contexts across sub-Saharan Africa as they navigate the path towards creating their futures. With a conscious effort, they have focused their attention on young graduates who have attained a university degree, offering a vivid and captivating account of their strategies for social growth as they navigate the complexities of adulthood in uncertain environments.

The examples provided in this collection are enriched through the inclusion of photographs taken by young Malian photographers, adding a visual dimension to the narratives. These photographs capture the essence of the cities and communities featured, providing a glimpse into the lives and experiences of the young individuals portrayed.

Burkina Faso, Guinea, Ethiopia, Mali, and Tanzania are among the countries showcased in this collection, each offering a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by young people in urban contexts. Through their stories and experiences, the contributors shed light on the ways in which these young individuals are shaping their futures, navigating the complexities of social, economic, and cultural contexts to create a better life for themselves and their communities.

The contributors to this collection have approached their task with a deep sense of empathy and understanding, recognizing the importance of capturing the voices and perspectives of young people in the process of shaping their futures. They have approached their research with a rigorous academic framework, employing qualitative and quantitative methods to gather data and analyze the findings.

The insights and perspectives offered by the contributors to this collection are invaluable for policymakers, educators, and social activists working to promote social development and create a more inclusive and equitable society. By highlighting the activities and strategies of young men and women in sub-Saharan Africa, this collection provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue about the future of young people and the role that they can play in shaping it.

In conclusion, the time to come, as well as its exploration, remains a subject of fascination and inquiry for social actors and social scientists alike. The contributors to this collection have taken up the challenge of portraying the activities of young men and women in urban contexts across sub-Saharan Africa as they navigate the path towards creating their futures. Through their vivid and captivating accounts, they shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by these young individuals, offering valuable insights and perspectives that can inform policy and practice in the field of social development.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 226 x 147 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837639490