Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
15 October 2024 | 15:02 CAT

To turn SA’s youth unemployment crisis around, we need to believe in young people’s potential but also come up with a concrete, inclusive action plan. (Image/Mail&Guardian)

In a statement, the IRR underscores the urgency of a job creation plan, stating that it is not too soon to expect an uptick in jobs on the strength of the political partnership of the government of National Unity (GNU). They emphasize that ‘100 days into the GNU is too late for there not to be a plan for jobs’.

“The recent criticisms of the GNU by Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema are apposite and, as things stand, are a valid judgement of the government’s leadership on the jobs front. Measurable targets and goals are required to give credible hope to the many millions of idle workers in this country who are the real face of South Africa’s high employment rate,” says IRR campaign manager Makone Maja.

According to the SRF’s fourth-quarter survey conducted in September 2024, 27% of those with no formal education and 22% with grade 7 level education ranked unemployment as a top issue the government must address. Jobs and employment were similarly placed as the number one issue by 31% of respondents who earn less than R2 000 per month.

Job creation was just as much a concern among those typically excluded from the official unemployment statistics but registered under the expanded definition of unemployment, 26% of whom pointed to solving unemployment as a top government priority.

Maja highlights the potential benefits of the proposed reforms, stating, “The President should consider the IRR’s latest report, the sixth in the Blueprint for Growth series, Generating Jobs and Skills for Prosperity. This report outlines the requisite labour reforms that could lead to the economy growing at 7% per annum, doubling in size and creating millions of jobs, especially for low-skilled and low-earning workers.”

According to Maja, such reforms would help them climb the ladder of economic inclusion, give them a chance to improve their skill level and earning potential, and simultaneously empower them to fend for themselves and their families.

Maja concludes with a call for a clear, detailed plan: “The GNU has inspired a renewed sense of hope and optimism in the country and temporarily alleviated some of the economic pressure, as shown in the improvement of the rand. However, a clear, detailed plan and a commitment to following through on it is urgently needed to provide relief on the number one issue confronting the people of our country.”

Listen to the full interview on Radio Islam International with Muallimah Annisa Essack and IRR campaign manager Makone Maja here.