Developing and Empowering South Africa’s Youth: The National Human Development Report 2022

Deputy President Paul Mashatile recently launched the National Human Development Report 2022 in South Africa, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and its partners. The report aims to shed light on the challenges faced by South Africa’s youth, with the theme “Harnessing the Employability of South Africa’s Youth.”

Prioritizing Five Strategic Areas to Empower South Africa’s Youth

The report highlights five strategic areas that need prioritizing to develop and empower South Africa’s youth. These areas include investing in education, skills development, youth entrepreneurship, women’s economic empowerment, and strengthening the National Youth Service.

Tackling Youth Unemployment

Youth unemployment is a ticking time bomb in South Africa, which needs addressing to alleviate poverty and income inequality. The government has already initiated various youth empowerment programs, such as the Youth Employment Service Programme, which has placed over 100,000 young people into employment. Collaboration between the government, business, and labor sectors is necessary to maximize the potential of such programs.

Government Efforts to Empower Young People

The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) has made significant progress since its inception in 2020. More than four million youths have joined the network, which helps ease the transition from learning to earning. The Public Service Graduate Internship and Learnership Programme provides work experience to meet employer expectations, while the National Rural Youth Service Corps program trains young individuals in leadership, community service, and interpersonal communication.

Addressing Challenges in the Public Policy System

The report identifies substantial proportions of the youth unemployment rate from those without a matric qualification, highlighting leakages in the public policy system. The Development Bank of Southern Africa has identified a discrepancy between employer needs and youth skills, resulting in many graduates working in unrelated fields due to a lack of opportunities.

Accelerating Improvements in Education, Skills Development, and Innovation

The report emphasizes the importance of accelerating improvements in education, skills development, and innovation to empower South Africa’s youth. Strengthening youth service programs and community-based programs and investing in Further Education and Training (FET) colleges are recommended.

Efforts to Address Factors Leading to Dropouts

Efforts to address the factors leading to dropouts throughout the education system are needed. A more targeted intervention strategy that considers factors such as the urban-rural divide, race, gender, and opportunity availability is essential. The quality of education in FET colleges must be examined to ensure maximum benefit from the resources invested in the sector.

Equipping South Africa’s Youth with 21st-Century Skills

South Africa’s youth must be equipped with 21st-century skills, essential for competing on a global scale. Competencies in areas such as aircraft maintenance, digital twin technology, manufacturing robotics, and renewable energy are crucial.

Creating an Inclusive and Prosperous Future for South Africa’s Youth

Government efforts to empower young people must be grounded in a growing and inclusive economy, necessitating a united approach among social partners to re-industrialize and expand the economy. It is essential that South Africa’s youth read, study, and contribute their insights to the ongoing dialogue surrounding their empowerment. By tackling these issues, South Africa can create an inclusive and prosperous future for its most valuable asset, the youth.