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The SA Daily 15 May 2019

Youth the most vulnerable

  • The SA umployment rate rose to 27.6% (sharply in contrast to the National Development Plan’s vision of 6% by 2030) in 1Q19, from 27.1% in 4Q18, due to SA’s persistent lack of economic growth.
  • Most concerning is the youth unemployment rate at 55.2% for ages 15-24 years, and 34.2% for ages 25-34 years, due to the SA economy’s incapacity to create meaningful jobs. The youth also faces increased mechanisation as well as the imminent negative impact of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). In addition, SA’s employment-GDP elasticity has declined over the years due to increased mechanisation and other structural economic constraints.
  • As a percentage of the total employed, youth employment has declined from 44% in 2008 to 37% currently. Employment for those without tertiary education is virtually out of reach.
  • In 2009, 729k without tertiary education lost their jobs; however, only 44K with tertiary education lost their jobs. Per 1Q19 employment data, 309K people without tertiary education lost their jobs, while 60K people with tertiary education found work. This demonstrates the importance of education. SA therefore needs effective policy implementation to both address education and align it with 4IR.

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