South Africa stands at a defining moment, not because of a lack of talent, but because of a powerful opportunity to unlock it. Across the country, millions of young people are capable, ambitious, and eager to contribute meaningfully to society. The challenge, however, is not potential, but access employment opportunities.
For Joanna Johnston, newly appointed Novartis South Africa Country President, addressing youth unemployment is not only a social imperative but a strategic opportunity to strengthen the country’s long-term economic resilience. “We have a generation of young people ready to participate in the economy,” she says. “Our responsibility is to ensure that clearer, more inclusive pathways exist for them to do so.”
South Africa continues to face high levels of youth unemployment, yet this reality also presents an opportunity for business to step forward as a catalyst for change. By investing in skills development, workplace readiness, and early career opportunities, private sector organisations can play a transformative role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable economy.[1]
“There is enormous talent in this country,” says Johnston. “When young people are given access to meaningful opportunities, it builds confidence, restores dignity, and strengthens belief in their future. More importantly, it creates a meaningful opportunity to bring diverse perspectives and unique ideas into our organisation.” The role of business, therefore, is not just to employ, but to enable. Across industries, particularly in healthcare, the demand for future-fit skills is evolving rapidly.[2] Scientific advancement, digital transformation, and growing patient needs all point to the necessity of a workforce that is adaptable, collaborative, and continuously learning. [3] This creates a clear opportunity for private companies to invest early in developing capabilities that will sustain both their industries and the broader economy. [4]
Beyond individual organisations, the private sector also has a powerful role to play in shaping an ecosystem of opportunity. Collaboration between business, government, and educational institutions will be critical in ensuring that the youth is equipped with the skills required for the future workforce.[5] Importantly, building an inclusive economy requires a deliberate focus on those who remain underrepresented.[6] Expanding access for young people with disabilities, for example, is essential in ensuring that opportunity is truly equitable and that talent is not overlooked.[7]
“When business, government, and civil society work in partnership, we can unlock not only improved employability, but more inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” says Johnston. “At Novartis South Africa, we are proud to collaborate with stakeholders to address youth unemployment and advance disability inclusion, two critical priorities for our country’s future.” According to Johnston, initiatives such as graduate programmes, mentorship, and leadership development, are equipping young people with the skills, experience, and confidence they need to access meaningful work opportunities.
To date, Novartis South Africa has onboarded 60 learners into their business and supported 50 learners with disability through targeted skills development programmes. On average 12.5% have been permanently employed internally. “While we continue to strengthen our tracking of outcomes for participants in our skills development programmes, these efforts reflect our shared commitment to building a more inclusive workforce—one that empowers young people, enables persons with disabilities to fully participate in the economy, and drives long-term, sustainable growth for South Africa,” adds Johnston.
Ultimately, South Africa’s future will be shaped by how effectively it harnesses the potential of its young people. The private sector have both the capability and responsibility to be part of this transformation, not only by creating jobs, but by building pathways, investing in skills, and expanding access to opportunity.
Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Magwa Crescent West, Waterfall City, Jukskei View, 2090. Co. Reg. No.1946/020671/07. To report an adverse event, email: patientsafety.sacg@novartis.com or report it directly through our website: www.Novartis.com/report. Alternatively, call 0861 929 929. To report product quality complaints, email: qa.phzais@novartis.com. Alternatively, call 0861 929 929.
Approval Date: 24/06/2026. Expiry Date: 24/06/2028. Content ID: FA-11719949
[1] Youth unemployment, a crisis in South Africa
[2] The Future of Work in Healthcare: Preparing for a Talent-Driven Industry
[3] The Future of Work in Healthcare: Preparing for a Talent-Driven Industry
[4] 2025 OECD Skills Outlook: Business Underlines Importance of Skills Development and Reducing Skills Shortages
[5] Skills-gap crisis: 4 ways the public and private sectors can join forces to reskill workforces at scale | World Economic Forum
[6] Full article: Enabling inclusive economic eco-systems
[7] Youth uprising legacy incomplete without economic opportunities for youth with disabilities | SAnews
