South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis has left deep scars, with nearly 60% of young people either unemployed or not in education or training. That’s a startling number, one that I can’t ignore. It’s a statistic that reflects not only the barriers facing young South Africans but also the urgent need for solutions that empower this generation to shape their own futures.
Addressing the recent Solutions Exchange Conference, Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, Jomo Sibiya, echoed the same sentiment. He emphasised the vital role of youth employment and economic inclusion in driving South Africa’s growth. “In young people, we see the potential for the South Africa we want. They are the doctors, lawyers, business people, teachers, and artisans who will drive our nation forward—not just for the immediate future but for generations to come,” Sibiya declared passionately.
With an unemployment rate of over 70% among 20-year-olds and 25% even among those with tertiary qualifications, it’s clear that this issue is multifaceted. Young women, in particular, face even greater obstacles, with unemployment rates nearly 10% higher than their male peers. And it’s not just about numbers; it’s about breaking down the walls that prevent our youth from joining the workforce and contributing to their communities.
Sibiya highlighted several initiatives aimed at tackling these barriers, such as the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI). Through partnerships across government, business, and civil society, PYEI provides job opportunities, skills training, and support for young entrepreneurs. The initiative’s SA Youth platform has already registered over 4.1 million young South Africans. “Imagine a young person in a rural community, much like the one I grew up in,” Sibiya mused.
“With the right support, she could transition from being a student in an under-resourced school to leading a team at a major tech company.”I find it inspiring how these efforts align with broader national programs like Operation Vulindlela, which focuses on economic reforms to create jobs, and the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES), which has delivered over two million job opportunities, most of which were taken up by young people. Sibiya pointed out, “A working nation is a peaceful nation, and by supporting the youth to access the labour market, we’re ensuring the stability needed for South Africa to prosper.”
The Deputy Minister also reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supportive legislation, such as the Labour Relations Act and the Employment Equity Act, which promote fairness and inclusivity in workplaces. He stressed, “Our efforts are grounded in the belief that partnerships are the most effective means to create inclusive growth that benefits all South Africans.”As Sibiya concluded, he reminded us that success requires a collective commitment.
“It’s the brains trust in this room creating the conditions for long-term, meaningful change,” he said, urging everyone to take part in transforming the employment landscape and restoring dignity through opportunity.As I reflect on his words, I see a clear path forward. We can’t wait for change to happen—we need to be active participants in making it happen. Let’s create the future South Africa deserves by empowering our youth and bridging the gap between potential and opportunity.