South Africa stands at the forefront of global youth population statistics yet faces the stark reality of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world. Statistics South Africa is indicating a 45.5% unemployment rate among young individuals (aged 15-34), in contrast to the national average of 32.9% in the first quarter of 2024.
South Africa’s youth face significant hurdles in accessing employment opportunities, with structural barriers and skill mismatches contributing to persistently high unemployment rates. “At Ackermans, we recognise the urgency of investing in the next generation and providing tangible pathways to economic independence,” says Reinette Lourens, Training and Development Manager.
The enduring legacy of low economic growth compounds the issue, leaving many disengaged from the labour market and ill-equipped to navigate its demands. Addressing youth unemployment necessitates a multifaceted approach encompassing soft skills development, career guidance, and entrepreneurship support.
Ackermans is committed to creating learning and job opportunities for entry-level youth across South Africa with no prior work experience. These opportunities are designed to help young individuals gain valuable experience and skills in the retail industry. Opportunities are created at Support centre, stores and Distribution environments offering graduate programmes, shop assistant/cashier and DC assistant roles.
Upon completion of a one-year learnership or graduate programme, many of these unemployed young people are permanently employed at Ackermans, starting their careers in retail.
Empowering Unemployed Youth Through Learnerships
Ackermans, in collaboration with W&RSETA and external providers, offers learnership programmes that blend structured learning with practical work experience. These programmes equip both employed and unemployed young people with the skills necessary for roles in sales, customer service, and administrative support.
“The learning opportunities we provide to young individuals give them a stepping stone into the workforce, enabling them to gain practical experience, develop essential skills, and build a foundation for their future careers,” says Reinette Lourens. “Once signed off on a learning programme, they are equipped to capitalise on the many entry-level employment opportunities that Ackermans offers our youth.” This year, we have 1,372 young people completing learnerships at Ackermans, making it possible for our unemployed youth to enter the retail industry.
These programmes stretch over a period of one year and offer the learner an occupational qualification and relevant experience upon completion. The experience and opportunities gained have been invaluable for many, setting them on a path to careers driven by lifelong learning and coaching.
“I have been with Ackermans for a year and a month. I initially joined as a festive contractor during the holiday season. In February, I was given the chance to join the Learning and Development (L&D) learnership programme. Throughout my learnership, Ackermans provided me with another opportunity to work with them. I am grateful to Ackermans for offering me the chance to be part of the L&D NQF 3 learnership programme and for considering me for future programmes,” says Keelyn Jacobs, a learnership recipient who is now a Shop Assistant/Cashier in store at Goodwood N1 City.
Nurturing Future Leaders Through Graduate Programmes
Each year, Ackermans takes on 20 new graduates with diplomas and degrees in key areas of the business, such as Buying, Operations, Finance, Human Resources, Data and Technology, Commercial, and Marketing. Over a 12-month period, these graduates immerse themselves in the Ackermans business to work on real projects under the guidance of experienced professionals, gaining valuable exposure to retail and their chosen field.
“After graduating, I was anxious because many of my friends struggled to find jobs. I applied for both the buying and marketing internships that Ackermans offered and was thrilled to land the marketing role. The welcoming environment made me realise I was in the right division of the company. I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the programme and to be offered a permanent job, which has allowed me to kick-start my career in marketing and social media. I’m excited about my future at Ackermans,” says Ellen Jordaan, Advertising Specialist: Social Media.
