Ms Dunstan said it was up to government at all levels, as well as colleges and training providers, “to make sure that there are employment opportunities for young people”.
And developing the area’s economy is a core purpose of the Swansea Bay City Region – its plans now badly hit by the “devastating” news about steel jobs, according to its chairman Rob Stewart.
“It’s really undermining the efforts that we have to create quality jobs in south Wales,” said Mr Stewart, who is also leader of Swansea council.
“There are now going to be limitations to what you can do in the steel industry because of the decisions made,” he said, addressing young people hopeful of finding work.
“I hope that we can reverse them, but there are going to be other opportunities coming along through the economy we’re creating in south Wales.
“As those opportunities come along stick with us, look at the careers you could potentially have in the area and we’ll support you to pursue those careers in this region.”