​Unemployment among young people requires urgent, innovative and coordinated solutions.
By the end of the first quarter in 2022, 46% of people between 15 and 34 years of age remained outside of employment, education and training.
In response, government is providing youth education, training and work opportunities to ensure that they get the skills needed to actively participate in the economy.  Here are some of the initiatives:
 
Tshepo 1 Million:
Tshepo 1Million is Gauteng province's youth empowerment initiative designed to help young work-seekers, hustlers and entrepreneurs access free skills training, resources and support. To register visit https://tshepo.datafree.co/join and click "I'm ready to join."
 
SAYouth.mobi:
SAYouth is a national pathway management network established by government in partnership with the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator and other organisations to support young people to find pathways into the economy.  Zero-rated by all mobile networks, on this platform young people, can find out about jobs, leadership, bursary, work experience and entrepreneurial opportunities. To register visit:  sayouth.mobi/Home/Login.
 
Small Enterprise Development Agency

The Small Enterprise Development Agency develops, supports and promotes small enterprises throughout the country. It can guide people on how to start their own businesses – from business plans, to where to get funding, to registering your business. Call 0860 663 7867, or visit www.seda.org.za
 
The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA):
The NYDA provides career guidance services, mentorship, skills development and training, business management training, and entrepreneurial development and support. Call 087 158 4742 or visit www.nyda.gov.za/
 
Second Chance Programme

If you did not pass matric or dropped out of high school, the Department of Basic Education's Second Chance Programme gives you a second chance to earn your National Senior Certificate. The programme supports anyone who wants to achieve or improve a matric qualification, subject-by-subject and on a part-time basis. There are no costs involved. For more information email: SecondChance@dbe.gov.za

 
National Career Advice Portal

National Career Advice Portal is a free online self-help tool designed to facilitate informed career and study decisions. Call 086 999 0123 or SMS please call me to 072 204 5056 or visit http://ncap.careerhelp.org.za/

 
Central Applications Clearing House (CACH)

The CACH service is for learners who qualify for higher education studies but have not been accepted at an institution of their choice at the time the matric results were released. It is also for those learners who did not apply before the closing dates last year and are eligible for higher education studies. Applications for 2023 entry will open in January 2023 after the release of the 2022 matric results. Call the centre on 0860 356 635.

 
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas)
Nsfas is a student financial aid scheme aimed at providing financial aid to eligible students at TVET colleges and public universities, it identifies eligible students, provides bursaries and collects past student loan repayments to replenish the funds available for future generations of students. Be on the lookout for the 2023 application dates here: www.nsfas.org.za