Hagos, Ashenafi (PhD)Bezabih, Zelalem2018-06-212023-11-042018-06-212023-11-042014-07http://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/2596Youth unemployment is one of the most dominant socio-economic problems in Ethiopia. Particularly, urban youth unemployment is higher in Addis Ababa. This study explored the nature of youth unemployment attempting to examine the living conditions, experiences, challenges, efforts and opportunities of unemployed youth living in kazanchis. A purposive sampling technique and a qualitative research design with a case study approach were used as a major study tools to identify respondents and share their experience. In-depth interview, observation and focus group disunion were used. Data was also collected from the families of unemployed youth and the government representatives of the local administration. Thematic analyses using triangulation and cross case analysis were used to refine data. The findings indicate that unemployed youth in kazanchis are facing more difficult challenges than just economic ones including social and psychological impacts. Unemployed youth are subjected to lead subsistence or be it a dependent life. Aside from social isolation, depression, inferiority complex and low self-esteem are common among unemployed youth. In spite of strong desire and effort to change, unemployed youth seem to have a critical response towards government efforts in curbing the problem of unemployment. Lack of transparency and inclusiveness, undiversified area of engagement are among the major critics. However, the government remains adamant claiming the youth are victims of modernization and need to up hail their working culture. Nevertheless, the issue of egalitarian treatment, improved school to work integration, better arranged technical trainings and social programs; stress coping and life skill trainings and strengthened localized efforts are the major social work implications of the studyenSocial WorkThesis