EDUCATION THE CORNERSTONE TO A BETTER FUTURE FOR THE YOUTH OF SOUTH AFRICA
IT FOUND THAT 45.5% OF YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 15 TO 34 WERE UNEMPLOYED. DESPITE THESE CHALLENGES, THE LABOUR MARKET DYNAMICS REPORT FOR 2022 SHOWS THAT YOUNG PEOPLE WITH WORK EXPERIENCE TRANSITION TO EMPLOYMENT MORE SUCCESSFULLY THAN ADULTS, HIGHLIGHTING THE IMPORTANCE OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING. Education also plays a crucial role; those with tertiary qualifications are more likely to secure jobs. In fact, in 2022, the youth employment transition rate rose to 4.7%, up from 3.5% in 2021, while adult rates remained at 6.7%. However, young women and those in rural areas face additional hurdles. It is no secret that South Africa remains one of the most unequal societies in the world, where access to resources and opportunities is heavily influenced by socioeconomic status and geography. This demographic often faces additional hurdles, including poor infrastructure, limited access to quality education, and a lack of economic opportunities. These figures represent dreams deferred and potential unrealised. As Stats SA states, “addressing youth unemployment not only contributes to economic growth but also fosters social cohesion and reduces inequality, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous society”.
Prof Letlhokwa George Mpedi is the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Johannesburg. He recently published an opinion article that first appeared in the Daily Maverick on 17 June 2024. Youth Day is a poignant reminder of the resilience and potential of South Africa’s youth. It calls on us to redouble our efforts to create an environment where young people can thrive. It is sometimes an arduous task to reflect on the past – particularly when challenges persist in the present. This year has been a worthwhile reminder of the freedoms we have fought for. In the aftermath of the elections, we are reminded of the sacrifices that were made to get to this point. In particular this week, we reflect on the 1976 Soweto uprising. This was a turning point in the struggle against apartheid. It was an incredible galvanisation of forces. The events of 16 June 1976 were more than just a tragic confrontation. It was a catalyst that energised the anti- apartheid movement. The youth exposed the inhumanity of the apartheid regime and demanded change. Now, 48 years from this moment, and at the helm of a higher education institute, I pause to reflect on the challenges South Africa’s youth face and the possibilities that lie before them. The legacy of Youth Day compels us to consider how we, as educators and leaders, can contribute to addressing the pressing issues faced by young South Africans. Indeed, all that was imagined then has not been achieved. Many of the aspirations of that era remain unfulfilled. High unemployment rates, lingering divides and issues of access, and deep-seated economic inequalities are stark reminders of the work that still needs to be done. Perhaps the starkest challenge our youth grapple with is hopelessness. Given our socioeconomic context, this is understandable. In May, Statistics South Africa compiled a comprehensive look into youth unemployment.
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