A Methodological Framework for Assessing Youth Engagement in Senegalese Agribusiness and Food Systems (2021–2026)

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{ "background": "Youth engagement is critical for transforming agribusiness and food systems in sub-Saharan Africa, yet robust methodological tools to assess its depth and drivers remain underdeveloped. Existing frameworks often lack integration of socio-cultural dimensions with economic and entrepreneurial metrics, particularly in West African contexts.", "purpose and objectives": "This article presents a novel, mixed-methods methodological framework designed to systematically evaluate the nature, extent, and determinants of youth engagement in agribusiness and food systems. Its primary objective is to provide a replicable tool for generating comparative, longitudinal evidence to inform policy and programme design.", "methodology": "The framework integrates a longitudinal panel survey, discrete choice experiments, and participatory scenario planning workshops. The core analytical model is a random effects probit panel model: $Y{it} = \\Phi(\\beta0 + \\beta1X{1it} + ... + \\mui + \\epsilon{it})$, where $Y_{it}$ indicates sustained engagement. Inference relies on cluster-robust standard errors to account for intra-community correlation.", "findings": "As a methodology article, this paper presents the framework's architecture and validation protocol, not empirical results. Pilot testing indicated a strong directional association between access to digital market platforms and stated engagement intentions, with a preliminary thematic analysis identifying 'social prestige' as a more salient motivator than previously documented.", "conclusion": "The proposed framework offers a comprehensive, culturally-grounded instrument for capturing the multi-dimensionality of youth engagement. It addresses a significant methodological gap by formally combining behavioural economic techniques with qualitative participatory appraisal.", "recommendations": "Researchers applying this framework should prioritise co-design with local youth groups to ensure contextual relevance. Future adaptations should consider incorporating environmental resilience indicators to assess climate-smart engagement.", "key words": "methodology, youth engagement, agribusiness, food systems, mixed methods, Senegal", "contribution statement": "This paper provides the first integrated methodological framework that combines panel data analysis, experimental economics