In one of the most forthright and necessary episodes of EDTECH Generation, Rosa Dichas –a labour lawyer and public speaker– puts into words what many young people have been feeling for some time: the labour market is broken. But rather than simply complaining, Rosa puts forward clear solutions from the perspective that is most sorely needed: training and career guidance.
A challenging context: youth unemployment, precarious living conditions and a disconnect from reality
Spain remains one of the EU countries with the highest youth unemployment rate. And although the figures have improved slightly in recent years (from 30 % to 25 %), we are still third from the bottom.
In the interview, Rosa highlights a key point: The problem is not just economic, but structural. A university education that is out of touch with reality, an over-reliance on unstable sectors such as tourism, and a a lack of career guidance from an early age exacerbate the imbalance.
“Going to university no longer guarantees a stable future. You need more than just a degree.”
What are we missing? Training, yes… but also information
Rosa makes it clear: it’s not enough just to have a degree or a master’s. Many people are unaware of their most basic employment rights and don’t know how to respond to illegal questions or unfair conditions during job interviews.
This is where the training and career guidance as a cornerstone of citizen empowerment. Knowing what a legal notice period is, how to read a contract, or what questions you should never be asked in a job interview is just as important as having work experience.
“Nobody will know what you want unless you say so. But you can’t stand up for your rights either if you don’t know what they are.”
How to navigate a changing labour market
The world of work is changing at a rapid pace. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2030, 25 % of current jobs will have disappeared or changed. Rosa proposes a three-step approach for those who feel they need to reinvent themselves:
- Self-awareness: understand what you’re good at, what you enjoy and how you want to earn money.
- Specialism: The market values candidates with specific skills who can solve specific problems.
- Action plan: to set out a plan with defined deadlines, resources and objectives.
Training and career guidance: an unresolved issue
The episode also raises a point that should give us pause for thought as a society: the lack of vocational training in secondary schools and universities. Rosa insists that an understanding of one’s rights, the use of platforms such as LinkedIn, and proper preparation for interviews are essential skills that should be taught with the same emphasis as any other subject.
Conclusion
Vocational training and career guidance cannot be a luxury or an individual responsibility. It must be an educational, political and social priority. Because, as Rosa concludes, The best way to fix a broken labour market is to start by getting to know yourself, gaining skills and getting out there.