Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a keynote address at the official National Youth Day commemoration in Potchefstroom today, focusing on the pressing issue of youth unemployment and outlining government interventions to tackle the crisis.
Speaking at the event, Mashatile emphasized the need for economic participation and entrepreneurship among young South Africans, highlighting collaborations with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) to create job opportunities and support small businesses.
North West Province Grapples with High Unemployment
The event also shed light on the severe unemployment challenges in the North West province, which reportedly has one of the highest joblessness rates in the country. The North West Premier, who addressed the media, acknowledged the crisis but pointed to several initiatives aimed at alleviating the problem.
Among these efforts is a R750 million labor activation plan in partnership with the national Department of Employment and Labour. This initiative includes a large-scale agricultural project in the Ditsobotla area, where 2,000 young people will cultivate 3,000 hectares of land for dry bean production. The premier stated that this project could generate an annual turnover of R57 million if successfully implemented.
Government and Private Sector Partnerships
The premier also highlighted additional programs, including:
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Permanent government posts: Over 260 funded vacancies were advertised, with 70% already filled.
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Skills development: More than 4,000 youths placed in internships, learnerships, and artisan training programs.
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Private sector collaboration: Partnerships with companies like JP Lab to train young people in entrepreneurship and technical skills.
Despite these efforts, the premier admitted that demand far exceeds current capacity, stressing the need for sustained investment and private sector involvement in key industries such as tourism, mining, and manufacturing.
Call for Sustainable Solutions
During discussions, journalists raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of these projects. The premier assured that the government is working on follow-up support for beneficiaries, including market access for agricultural produce and continued skills development.
Deputy President Mashatile reiterated the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, urging provinces to intensify job creation efforts. “South Africa is alive with opportunities,” he said, “but we must ensure young people are equipped to seize them.”
As Youth Day celebrations concluded, the focus remained on turning policy promises into tangible employment opportunities for millions of struggling South African youth.
