Transforming Youth Unemployment Through Green Skills Training: A Call for Robust Support in South Africa
Key Ideas
  • Stats SA reports a rise in unemployment to 33.5% in Q2 of 2024, with youth bearing the brunt, leading to resorting to retail jobs, crime, and inadequate skills training.
  • TVET colleges proposed as hubs for training in green skills related to renewable energy to combat youth unemployment effectively.
  • President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement during the State of the Nation Address supports the transition to renewable energy, emphasizing the importance of green skills training in sectors like solar, wind, and hydrogen energy.
  • Efforts to reduce youth unemployment in South Africa require robust support for TVET colleges from stakeholders and partners to succeed in the decarbonised economy.
According to the latest data from Stats SA, the unemployment rate in South Africa rose to 33.5% in the second quarter of 2024, highlighting the significant challenges faced by the youth population in finding sustainable employment opportunities. Many young individuals, despite having qualifications, are compelled to work in retail due to economic hardships and the responsibility of supporting their families. Tragically, some turn to criminal activities such as car hijackings, drug dealing, and other illicit operations in a bid for survival. To address the pressing issue of youth unemployment, the proposal to utilize TVET colleges as centers for green skills training emerges as a potential solution. The emphasis on training in sectors like solar manufacturing, wind energy installation, and hydrogen energy aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa's push towards a decarbonised economy in South Africa. By equipping unemployed youth with relevant green skills, the aim is to not only tackle unemployment but also contribute to the country's transition towards renewable energy sources. However, challenges persist in the effectiveness of the current training programs offered by TVET colleges. Issues such as inadequate dissemination of information, lack of support from Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas), and insufficient coordination with government departments hinder the success of these initiatives. Despite having advanced skills centers, the outcomes in terms of addressing youth unemployment remain unsatisfactory. In light of these circumstances, a collective effort from all stakeholders and partners is deemed essential to drive the necessary reforms in green skills training and employment opportunities for the youth. By leveraging the potential of TVET colleges and aligning training programs with the demands of the decarbonised economy, South Africa can make significant strides in combating youth unemployment and fostering a skilled workforce for the future.
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