Between April and June of this year alone, over 135,000 earning opportunities were secured by youth through the PYEI's National Pathway Management Network. Out of the total earning opportunities, a significant portion 108,061 was accessed through the SA Youth platform.
The platform has become a crucial hub for connecting young individuals with various job prospects and employment paths. Additionally, the Department of Employment and Labour’s Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) website contributed to the initiative's success, providing 27,088 opportunities to young job seekers.
Funding Critical for Expanding Impact
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, stressed the importance of securing additional funding for the PYEI to further its reach and impact.
With over 4.1 million young people participating in the program at no cost, the initiative has proven effective in linking them to valuable opportunities that are essential for their livelihoods. Morolong emphasised ongoing discussions with the National Treasury to ensure the program's sustainability and expansion.
Empowering Youth as Employees and Entrepreneurs
Morolong highlighted the necessity of creating pathways into the economy for youth, not only as employees but also as entrepreneurs.
The PYEI program not only facilitates job placements but also exposes young individuals to self-employment opportunities, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among the youth. Encouraging young people to seize these opportunities, Morolong hailed the program's role in enabling economic participation.
Young Women Leading the Way
Lerato Shai, Director of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, revealed an encouraging trend in the distribution of opportunities. Among the work opportunities accessed by young people, an impressive 70% were secured by young women.
Shai acknowledged the specific challenges that young women face in the labour market, despite their increasing educational attainment.
However, she highlighted that when programs are intentionally designed to address these barriers, young women excel in male-dominated sectors, creating new pathways for themselves.
Calls For Gender Inclusivity In SA’s Job Market
Shai emphasised the need for a systemic shift to promote gender equity in employment. She emphasised that the goal should not be merely "jobs for girls," but rather the creation of employment systems that truly work for women.
We are seeing more women that are educated, that are tenacious but they’re still facing substantial barriers once they enter into the labour market with many of them being far less employed
Shai also discussed the impact of the Youth Employment Service (YES), which has witnessed significant engagement from young women. The initiative has supported over 58% of young women and has successfully generated demand and access to opportunities within the private sector.
Impressively, 42% of YES alumni have been employed in permanent or contract roles, showcasing the initiative's effectiveness in creating sustainable pathways for young women.
As the PYEI continues to demonstrate its positive impact and address youth unemployment, the collaborative efforts of government, institutions, and young individuals themselves are crucial in driving South Africa toward a more inclusive and prosperous future.
