Young People in Dominica
Young people in Dominica represent a vital force in the country’s development, cultural preservation, and social transformation. Defined broadly as individuals aged 15 to 35, this demographic forms a significant share of the population. According to the last official census (2011), nearly 40% of Dominica’s population was under the age of 35. Since then, the ratio has remained high, although migration has shifted the absolute numbers.
Historical and Demographic Context
Dominica’s youth population has been central to national movements from colonial resistance to political reform. In the 1960s and 1970s, youth played prominent roles in union activism and political change, including the rise of the Dominica Labour Party and subsequent opposition movements. Since independence in 1978, policies and programming for youth have evolved slowly, shaped by shifting educational access, employment trends, and global exposure.
The number of young people enrolled in secondary and post-secondary institutions saw steady increases from 1990 to 2010. In 1995, there were fewer than 1,000 students enrolled in higher-level education; by 2020, that figure had risen to over 3,200 across the Dominica State College, nursing schools, and technical institutions.
Emigration remains a key pressure point. It’s estimated that thousands of Dominicans between the ages of 20 and 30 have migrated over the last 25 years, seeking opportunities in the United States, the UK, Canada, and neighboring islands. While this exodus has reduced the on-island youth population, it has also created a powerful transnational community, often engaging with home through remittances, online activism, and cultural contributions.
Youth Employment, Education, and Opportunities
Youth unemployment remains high, official reports indicate that between 20–30% of young Dominicans are unemployed at any given time, with the figure often higher for women. The lack of sufficient private sector jobs and limited industry diversification has made employment a recurring issue. Many graduates return home after university abroad but face few employment options aligned with their qualifications.
Government initiatives such as the Youth Skills Training Programme, the National Employment Programme (NEP), and partnerships with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have attempted to address this challenge. However, a significant gap persists between the skills provided by educational institutions and the needs of the local job market.
Non-governmental organizations such as Dominica Youth Business Trust (DYBT) and Junior Achievement Dominica have promoted entrepreneurship and financial literacy among youth. These efforts have contributed to the growth of small business ventures, particularly in beauty services, agro-processing, digital services, and tourism-related enterprises.
Youth and Political Engagement
Civic engagement among youth in Dominica has been uneven. While many participate actively in social media-driven dialogue and student activism, overall political participation tends to spike around election periods. Efforts by schools, the Electoral Office, and youth organizations have aimed to instill civic education and leadership training from an earlier age.
The National Youth Council of Dominica (NYCD), originally established in 1970, continues to be a primary platform for youth political advocacy. However, it has faced funding and organizational challenges over the years. Revitalization efforts since 2018 have included national consultations, training sessions, and collaborations with regional bodies.
Key Challenges and Cultural Expression
Aside from economic and political concerns, young Dominicans face challenges tied to mental health, crime exposure, and generational tensions. The availability of recreational outlets and structured mentorship has been limited in many rural communities, contributing to feelings of isolation and low morale among youth.
Still, young people have maintained a strong presence in cultural life. From Carnival to music production and spoken word, youth remain the creative backbone of Dominican identity. Local artists such as Colton T and Asa Bantan, and dancers like the Waitukubuli Dance Theater Company, often include youth talent in their performances and projects. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube have become popular tools for expression and entrepreneurship among young Dominicans.
Outlook and Investment in Youth
A 2021 survey conducted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs revealed that over 60% of Dominican youth believe they can contribute significantly to the country’s future but need more support in areas like financing, training, and mental health services. This finding reflects a growing demand for investment, not only in education and job creation but in holistic development.
While regional collaboration through the CARICOM and OECS has enabled youth exchanges, training, and small grants, there remains a need for stronger institutional support. Establishing youth-targeted agricultural zones, media studios, and cooperative funding models may offer long-term benefits.
Despite limitations, Dominican youth continue to show resilience, creativity, and agency. With more inclusive planning and real structural investment, they have the potential to lead not only their communities but the national direction in the decades ahead.