Youth unemployment results in economic losses and deprives South Africa of the creativity and innovative capabilities of its young people. Youth employment, on the other hand, is the best acceleratorof economic growth and human development, and presents a promising opportunity towards realizing the country’s development vision.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in South Africa and the Human Sciences Research Council (SHRC) will launch the South Africa National Human Development Report (SANHDR) 2022, officiated by His Excellency Deputy President Mr Paul Mashatile. The report’s theme, “Harnessing the Employability of South Africa’s Youth,” examines youth unemployment from a human development perspective, emphasizing its impact on earning potential, business growth, social cohesion, and public resources. Youth unemployment is a critical development challenge in South Africa; addressing it simultaneously targets poverty and income inequality. Tackling youth joblessness is not only essential for sound economics but also a development imperative.

The launch event will shed light on youth unemployment, highlighting its consequences, and present policy recommendations for fostering inclusive and sustainable growth in South Africa.

Details of the event are as follows:  

When:                     25 July 2023  

Time:                       15:00-17:00

Where:                    ISibalo House, Koch Street, Salvokop, Pretoria

Platform:      In-person

Who:             H.E. Mr Paul Mashatile, Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa

                     Dr Ayodele Odusola, Director, UNDP South Africa

                     Prof Sarah Mosoetsa, CEO, Human Science Research Council

                     Mr Risenga Maluleke, Statistician General of South Africa

                     Mr Waseem Carrim, Chief Executive Officer, National Youth Development Agency

Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities

Mr Nelson Muffuh, UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa          

Media is invited to attend the launch event. For more information and pre/onsite interview requests, please contact:

Ntokozo Mahlangu at ntokozo.mahlangu@undp.org, +27 60 533 6760

Adziliwi Nematandani at anematandani@hsrc.ac.za, +27 82 765 9191

For media accreditation, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/BkKfrPmmMTc7aqAQ8