In Ecuador, the level of adequate employment has seen an improvement over the past two years, with projections estimating that by the end of 2025, 37% of Ecuadorians will be working at least 40 hours a week and earning at least the equivalent of the unified minimum wage. However, the groups most affected by employment access issues are women and youth, highlighting the economic challenge of generating sufficient jobs to accommodate the annually increasing workforce.

The responsibility for job creation does not solely lie with the state or businesses, but also includes academic institutions. There is a growing necessity for a strong collaboration between higher education institutions and the productive sector. This partnership is crucial for formally preparing careers and offering non-formal training and certifications aimed at young people seeking to improve their employability skills.

The implementation of a new dual training law could enhance this collaboration, ensuring that educational programs align closely with the needs of the job market. This law could facilitate a structured approach for students to gain practical experience while studying, thus addressing the mismatch between education and employment. With effective execution, it may lead to higher employment rates and better job security for vulnerable groups in the workforce.