During an ANC rally in Langa, Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa assured the young populace that his administration would generate one million job opportunities annually for the next five years, alongside allocating R21 billion for youth training.
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Engaging with hundreds of youthful attendees, most of whom were casting their first votes, Ramaphosa listened to their grievances regarding unemployment, inadequate service delivery, and educational limitations. Statistics SA findings emphasised the persistent vulnerability of individuals aged 15 to 34 in the labour market.
Notably, the fourth quarter of 2023 witnessed a surge of 87 000 unemployed youth, reaching a total of 4.7 million. Conversely, there was a decline of 97 000 employed youth for every 5.9 million, resulting in a 0.9 percentage point increase in the youth unemployment rate from 43.4% in Q3 2023 to 44.3% in Q4 2023.
Ramaphosa emphasised that addressing youth unemployment is a key focus outlined in the ANC’s manifesto, which will guide the party’s actions over the next five years if it is re-elected.
‘In our manifesto, we identified six priorities, with unemployment and job creation topping the list. We recognize that job scarcity is a pressing issue affecting our nation, and it’s important to note that the majority of those without employment are young individuals.
‘But it’s also crucial to acknowledge that there are many individuals aged 35 and older who are also facing unemployment,’ the president stated.
Responding to scepticism about the government’s past promises, Ramaphosa stressed the importance of evidence-based evaluation. He pointed out the growth in employment numbers since 1994, highlighting that the current workforce has doubled.
‘Our agenda is ambitious, aiming to create 5 million jobs over the next five years. Generating one million jobs annually is a significant accomplishment. Historically, our economy has only managed to create 600 000 jobs even during periods of 5% growth. But now, we are committed to creating a million jobs each year,’ he affirmed.
Ramaphosa further stated, ‘We will invest R21 billion in training young people to equip them for these opportunities.’
Awam Lisa Jacob, a student at UWC, urged the president to accelerate job creation efforts, citing the detrimental impact of unemployment on young individuals.
‘The reason we have so many young people on drugs is because they have nothing to do and no opportunities; they are bored, and that is why we see them joining gangs and beating up their mothers,’ Jacob’s emphasised.
Nomthandazo Dunywa echoed Jacob’s sentiments, appealing to the president to prioritise job creation for the youth.
‘Mr President, as a young person, I still believe in the ANC. However, please invest in creating jobs for young people. It’s not nice leaving our parents at home to look for jobs knowing that there’s no hope. I am pleading with you to please invest in job opportunities for young people,’ Dunywa stated.
Ramaphosa engaged in ANC campaign activities throughout the Western Cape this week, connecting with numerous supporters and potential voters.
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Picture: @MYANC / X