President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed the government's commitment to confront the pressing challenge of youth unemployment. With over 4.6 million unemployed youth and a youth unemployment rate of 43.4%, the need for practical solutions is paramount
In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) President Ramaphosa underscored the urgency of addressing this critical issue and outlined the government's effots to take immediate action.
While speaking about the significant strides made over the past 30 years, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that millions of young South Africans aged 15 to 24 still grapple with unemployment, lack of education, or training opportunities.
They emphasised the need for prompt interventions and acknowledged that while economic growth is essential to reduce unemployment, the country cannot wait to provide the work for the country’s young people.
The President highlighted the government's efforts to combat youth unemployment, particularly through initiatives such as the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES) and the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI).
Launched three years ago, the PES has successfully created over 1.7 million work opportunities, providing vital employment avenues for young individuals. Notably, the placement of more than 1 million school assistants in 23,000 schools has not only offered valuable work experience but also contributed to enhancing learning outcomes.
If you go around our country, and you talk to school principals, you talk to school teachers, they will tell you how beneficial this programme has been in assisting them in their schools but more importantly how beneficial this programme has been to these young people who are being introduced to the world of work.
The PYEI's establishment of SAYouth.mobi as a zero-rated platform has facilitated access to learning and earning opportunities for unemployed youth. Youth can sign up on the SAYouth.mobi service as their first step to finding a load of job opportunities. The platform connects youth to the YES program, Full-time jobs, Part-time jobs, Learnerships, Volunteering and learning opportunities.
With over 4.3 million participants engaged on the platform, 1.6 million have secured opportunities, signalling the programme's significant impact in addressing youth unemployment.
Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, we have created more than 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities
President Ramaphosa emphasised the collaborative efforts between the government and institutions like the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) in implementing initiatives such as the National Youth Service and the Youth Employment Service.
These programs aim to provide young people with opportunities for personal and professional development, including entrepreneurship support through business startup assistance.
