Mamsi Nkosi | 22 October 2024 South Africa faces one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with 32.6% of the population unemployed as of 2023. The country’s youth are particularly affected, with over 60% of young people aged 15 to 24 unemployed. This challenge is exacerbated by economic stagnation, slow job creation, and a skills mismatch that leaves many job seekers ill-prepared for available opportunities. Amid these challenges, technology is a potential game changer that could help alleviate unemployment by reshaping industries, creating new opportunities, and enhancing productivity across sectors. Unemployment in South Africa is largely structural, driven by deep-rooted issues such as inequality and inadequate access to education. While many South Africans struggle to find work, businesses often face difficulties filling positions due to a lack of skills. This mismatch is particularly evident in fields like Information Technology, Engineering, and Healthcare, where the demand far outstrips supply. In addition to these structural issues, South Africa’s economy has been slow to recover from the impact of COVID-19. Many industries, including Tourism and Manufacturing, were severely affected by lockdown measures, further exacerbating unemployment levels. However, amid these challenges, the digital economy has shown resilience, with technology-driven sectors presenting new growth opportunities. Technology is already transforming economies worldwide, and South Africa is no exception. The integration of digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation is reshaping traditional industries and creating entirely new sectors. As the global economy becomes more digitized, digital skills are increasingly in demand. South Africa’s workforce can benefit from targeted digital skills training programs that prepare job seekers for roles in fields such as software development, data analysis, digital marketing and cybersecurity. Moreover, digital platforms such as online freelancing marketplaces, have opened up remote work opportunities, allowing South Africans to offer their services to clients around the world. By fostering entrepreneurship and remote work, technology can help reduce unemployment, particularly among youth. Platforms like www.growspace.co.za seek to open up employment opportunities to more South Africans by reducing the information asymmetries that exist in the job market. South Africa can draw inspiration from other countries that have successfully leveraged technology to address unemployment. India for example has built a strong technology sector that has seen them create significant employment opportunities, especially for the youth. Today, India is one of the world’s largest technology offshoring destinations. Closer to home, Kenya’s adoption of mobile technology has enabled the rapid growth of its gig economy. M-Pesa, the country’s widely used mobile money platform, has played a crucial role in enabling entrepreneurs to offer services across a wide range of industries. The gig economy has provided employment for thousands of young Kenyans, particularly in sectors such as transportation, e-commerce, and online freelancing. While the potential for technology to reduce unemployment in South Africa is clear, several challenges remain. Access to affordable, high-speed internet is still limited in many parts of the country, particularly in rural areas. Data costs remain high, preventing many people from fully participating in the digital economy. Moreover, the digital divide between those with access to technology and those without risks exacerbating inequality. Government policies that promote digital inclusion, such as expanding internet infrastructure and reducing data costs, will be essential in ensuring that the benefits of technology are widely shared. Technology presents a significant opportunity to address unemployment in South Africa by creating new industries, transforming traditional sectors, and providing workers with the skills needed for the digital economy. However, for technology to truly be a game changer, South Africa must invest in digital infrastructure, promote digital skills training, and foster a culture of innovation. With the right policies in place, technology could be the catalyst that helps South Africa overcome its unemployment crisis, driving sustainable growth and improving the livelihoods of millions. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.itnewsafrica.com/2024/10/can-technology-solve-south-africas-high-unemployment-rate/#google_vignette

Ed Stoddard | 3 September 2024 South Africa’s economy grew 0.4% in the second quarter of this year after a revised performance that saw its size unchanged on a quarterly basis in Q1 from the initial estimate of a 0.1% contraction, Statistics South Africa said on Tuesday. This remains a woeful pace to tackle the terrible trifecta of poverty, unemployment and inequality. The read of a 0.4% second-quarter (Q2) expansion on a quarterly basis was just shy of economists’ expectations and underscores the scale of the challenge to switch economic gears into significantly faster growth.  The April-to-June period was marked by the notable milestone of Eskom implementing no rolling nationwide power cuts during the entire three months. The power crisis has long been regarded as the biggest constraint on economic growth, so that was a big deal. And the electricity sector did contribute to the marginal rate of growth recorded.  “… the electricity, gas & water supply industry… grew by 3.1%, driven by increased electricity generation and water distribution. If we ignore the topsy-turvy economic environment caused by the pandemic in 2020, the 3.1% growth rate represents the sharpest increase since the third quarter of 2008 (also 3.1%),” Statistics South Africa said.  Yet the economy is showing no signs yet of lift-off and overall growth remains at a woeful pace to tackle the terrible trifecta of poverty, unemployment and inequality.   It is probably also the case that political uncertainty ahead of the elections in late May may have kept a lid on confidence and investment, with the formation of the government of national unity coming too late in the quarter to make a real material difference to growth.  The best that can be said is that the economy at least expanded in Q2 after flatlining in Q1 – a slight upward revision from the initial estimate of a 0.1% contraction — and hopefully the pace can pick up in the second half of the year, helped my mounting expectations of a domestic interest rate cut this month as inflation slows.  There are some green shoots on the demand side of the data that could start to blossom in a lower inflation and interest rate environment, and looming withdrawals under the new “two-pot” retirement system are seen as a potential boost to expenditure.  “On the expenditure (demand) side of the economy, rising consumer confidence saw household consumption expenditure strengthen by 1.4%. Consumers increased their spending across most product categories,” Stats SA said.  This followed a 0.2% decline in Q1 and economists said this was a surprise on the upside.  “That 1.4% growth in household consumption stood out, we didn’t expect that given current economic conditions. But it’s from a low base,” Jee-A van der Linde, senior economist at Oxford Economics Africa, told Daily Maverick.  On the production side, manufacturing returned to growth with an expansion of 1.1% after a 1.4% dip in the previous quarter. But the mining sector maintained its decline with a 0.8% fall in production, and agricultural output dropped 2.1%.  “Agriculture, forestry and fishing faced headwinds, including lower-than-expected rainfall in some parts of the country (affecting maize and soya bean production), heavy rain in KwaZulu-Natal (affecting sugar cane production), and foot-and-mouth disease (affecting sheep and pork production),” Stats SA said.  Headwinds also abound for manufacturing and mining. The Absa Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for August contracted back into negative territory , suggesting that the sector is struggling to gain traction this quarter.  Meanwhile, the mining sector remains hampered by logistical constraints, low prices for platinum group metals and rising costs.  One very worrying sign in the data was a 1.4% fall in gross fixed capital formation, which is effectively a broad measurement of investment. This was its fourth straight quarter of decline and much faster rates of economic growth require this number to start rising. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2024-09-03-sa-economy-grows-0-4-in-q2-after-flatlining-in-q1-stats-sa/

Bridget Mpande | 8 September 2024 'As the Legislature, we have held various campaigns and workshops to draw from the experiences of survivors.' .“We are still far from winning the battle against gender-based violence and femicide [GBVF] that is destroying the very fabric of our society.” These were the words of the Speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Lindi Masina, during the 2024 Women’s Parliament and Awareness March against GBVF on Friday, August 30. “As the Legislature, we have held various campaigns and workshops to draw from the experiences of survivors. Therefore, the legislative sector and parliament have resolved to do more structural interventions against this abnormality. Our clear call is to ensure an end to any violation of women’s bodies as mere sites of exploitation and domination.” Masina also acknowledged all the work that had been done by the sixth legislature. She said a report was given in which the delegates were given feedback on the progress made in implementing the resolutions of the 2023 Women’s Parliament. The minister of women, youth and persons with disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, acknowledged the women of 1956 for their bravery and leadership in setting the agenda towards the liberation of women from patriarchal domination. In emphasising the road travelled in achieving women’s emancipation, she highlighted the transformation in the judiciary, commending the recent appointment of Judge Mandisa Maya as the first woman chief justice, while also demonstrating improvements since the advent of democracy with a specific focus on the judiciary. Chikunga alluded to a number of the government’s achievements towards the development of women in the past 30 years as part of celebrating democracy. She further indicated that women’s empowerment is fundamentally about empowering society, maintaining that no country can successfully advance while paying lip service to the ongoing violence against women and their rights. She spoke about the issues of GBVF against women and children, with reference to the alarming statistics of cases in this regard. “Ladies, the struggle for women’s political, social and economic emancipation does not stop today. August may be over for the purpose of heightening awareness, but imbokodo must continue to grind 365 days,” Chikunga said. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.citizen.co.za/mpumalanga-news/news-headlines/local-news/2024/09/08/mpumalanga-women-speak-during-2024-womens-parliament-and-gbvf-awareness-march/

S Futshane | 21 October 2024 Durban, 21 October 2024 – The South African National Road Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has launched a countrywide Contractor Development Programme to support and help black (African, Coloured and Indian) contractors to ultimately become main contractors on the roads agency’s construction and maintenance projects. SANRAL’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Lehlohonolo Memeza, introduced the Contractor Development Programme (CDP) to industry players in Durban and Richard’s Bay today (Monday). The CDP is a new initiative by SANRAL which aims to increase the capacity, equity ownership and sustainability of emerging contractors in Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grades 5CE and higher. Addressing the Contractor Development Programme event in Durban, Ms Memeza said that by investing in the development of contractors, SANRAL is aiming to empower black businesses, and especially those from underrepresented groups such as women, youth, persons with disabilities and military veterans. “Through our Contractor Development Programme, SANRAL aims to create an inclusive environment where emerging contractors can thrive. This initiative is a vital step toward levelling the playing field, ensuring that opportunities for growth and development are accessible to all,” said Ms Memeza. “By prioritising these targeted groups, SANRAL is contributing to the transformation of the construction industry and creating opportunities for meaningful economic participation.” Ms Memeza added: “The strength of our infrastructure lies in the capabilities of our contractors. SANRAL’s commitment to contractor development reflects our belief that by empowering black businesses, we are not only enhancing our projects but also contributing to economic stability and community upliftment.” The Contractor Development Programme also aims to: Create a unique platform for CIDB grades 5 to 7 to maximize participation and skills development, addressing the challenge of ‘the missing middle’ CIDB grades. Include potentially emerging (PE) status in SANRAL’s tender documents. Develop a platform for recently upgraded CIDB grades 8 and 9 to participate on SANRAL projects, gaining necessary experience and support. Provide training, mentoring, financial and other forms of support to contractors participating in the programme. “At SANRAL, we understand that successful projects begin with skilled hands and educated minds. Our Contractor Development Programme is designed to equip emerging contractors with the tools, knowledge and support they need to excel in a competitive industry, fostering a culture of excellence in construction,” said Ms Memeza. Mr Wonder Jaca from the Black Business Federation expressed his appreciation for the commitment that SANRAL is showing towards broadening the entry of small black-owned enterprises into the sector and that the CDP is a good “opportunity for small players who are grade 5 to 7 to maximise their participation on SANRAL projects. Let us use those networks to empower those grades”. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://stop-over.co.za/sanral-launches-national-contractor-development-programme-to-support-black-contractors-and-further-transform-construction-industry/

Die Pos | 7 September 2024 The official unemployment rate has slightly decreased by one percentage point to 32.9% in the last quarter of 2022, with some 204 000 job gains during the last quarter – a year-on-year decrease of about two percentage points. This is according to Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by the agency on Tuesday. “The number of unemployed persons decreased by 269 000 to 7.7 million and discouraged work-seekers also decreased by 54 000 to 3.5 million in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the previous quarter. “The number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 264 000 between the two quarters, resulting in a net increase of 210 000 in the not economically active population. “The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate decreasing from 33.9% in the second quarter of 2022 to 32.9% in the third quarter of 2022. “The unemployment rate, according to the expanded definition of unemployment, also decreased by one  percentage point to 43.1%. This is reflective of the fact that people were available for work but did not actively look for work. “All provinces recorded a decrease in the expanded unemployment rate, except in the North West, Limpopo and Free State, where it increased by 4.1 percentage points, 2.4 percentage points and 0.5 of a percentage point respectively. “The largest decrease was recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (down by three percentage points), followed by Western Cape and Gauteng (down by 1.8 percentage points each) and Mpumalanga (down by 1.6 percentage points),” Stats SA said. Stats SA emphasised that although youth unemployment also recorded a 1% decrease, this group still remains vulnerable. “The third quarter of 2022 results continue to show that the youth (aged 15-34 years) remain vulnerable in the labour market, with an unemployment rate of 45.5%. The total number of unemployed youth decreased by 182 000 to 4.6 million in the third quarter. There was an increase of 25 000 in the number of employed youth during the same period,” Stats SA said. According to Stats SA, employment gains were recorded in several industries, which brought the total number of employed persons in South Africa up to some 15.8 million. “[Some] 204 000 jobs were gained between the second quarter of 2022 and the third quarter of 2022. The total number of persons employed was 15.8 million in the third quarter of 2022. “[The] manufacturing (123 000), trade (82 000), construction (46 000) and transport (33 000) [industries] recorded the largest job gains, while job losses were recorded in [the] finance (80 000), private households (36 000) and mining and agriculture (1 000) [industries]. Sectors that recorded job increases were the formal and informal, with 235 000 and 6 000 respectively,” Stats SA said. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.citizen.co.za/die-pos/lnn/article/stats-sa-official-unemployment-rate-decreases/?amp

Nelson Kgarose | 9 September 2024 By investing in innovative training solutions and ensuring access to quality education, this initiative stands to empower local communities, foster economic growth, and ultimately, secure a brighter future for South Africa’s workforce. In a transformative step towards bolstering skills development within South Africa, a partnership has emerged between the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) and the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA). This collaboration aims to reshape the landscape of education and training across vital sectors, enhancing opportunities for individuals and communities alike. On August 27, an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed at CHIETA’s office in Midrand by Yershen Pillay, CEO of CHIETA, and Andile Sipengane, acting CEO of Services SETA. This agreement signifies a shared commitment to fortify the skills landscape in the chemical and services sectors, promoting sustainable livelihoods and economic growth. At the heart of this partnership is the integration of CHIETA’s Smart Skills Centre technologies into the Services SETA Mkhuze Skills Centre. This move is not merely an upgrade, it is a transformation that elevates the facility into a state-of-the-art training hub, focusing on digital skills and Fourth Industrial Revolution (4-IR) training. Pillay emphasised that the MOU represents a pivotal moment in efforts to cultivate a workforce ready to drive economic growth. “By collaborating with Services SETA, we are confident that we can significantly impact the sectors we serve,” said Pillay. CHIETA envisions establishing automated, digitised Smart Skills Centres in every South African province by 2025, thus reinforcing its commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods. Collaborating with local governments, educational institutions, and industry leaders will further highlight the importance of uniting efforts to empower South Africa’s youth and close the digital skills gap. Sipengane remarked on the significance of the Mkhuze Skills Centre, stating it is a testament to the commitment to uplifting communities through focused skills development. “This partnership with CHIETA aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are particularly excited about the potential to transform the Mkhuze facility into a flagship centre for excellence.” Effective until March 31, 2030, the MOU establishes a clear framework for both SETAs to work collaboratively toward shared objectives. Key highlights of the MOU: • Introduction of Smart Technologies: The partnership will focus on equipping the Mkhuze Skills Centre with advanced technologies, creating a modern and innovative training environment that meets the industry’s evolving needs. •Future Collaborations: The MOU lays the groundwork for joint efforts, including developing the upcoming Prieska Skills Centre, another key initiative to drive skills development in South Africa. • Mutual Support and Co-operation: Both SETAs have committed to working together in mutual trust and good faith, ensuring the successful implementation of the projects outlined in the MOU. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/news-headlines/2024/09/09/integrating-innovation-for-impact/

The Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Commission has recently published Explanatory Notice 01 of 2024.   This Explanatory Notice  is issued in terms of section 13F(3)(b)(i) of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act to guide the parties/entities regarding the process and documents to be submitted in registering a Major B-BBEE transaction to comply with the requirements of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act, including regulation 18 of the B-BBEE Regulations of 2016.   This Explanatory Notice  replaces Explanatory Notice 1 of 2017 effective from date of issue   Technical Services  are available for Members who need assistance with understanding Major B-BBEE Transactions.

In terms of section 13F (3) Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act 53 of 2003 as amended by Act 46 of 2013, the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Commission, must increase knowledge of the nature and dynamics and promote public awareness of matters relating to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment   One of the ways in which the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Commission delivers on the abovementioned mandate is by providing guidance to the public by issuing of non-binding opinions on the interpretation of any provision of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act as directed by the provisions of section 13F(3)(b)(ii) of the same Act.   This Explanatory Notice  replaces Explanatory Notice 01 of 2016 effective from date of issue.   Technical Services  are available for Members who need assistance with understanding Advisory Opinions.

The B-BBEE Commission has over the years continued to be inundated with requests from various stakeholders to confirm validity of B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Sworn Affidavits and CIPC EME B-BBEE Certificates, which process has resulted in the B-BBEE Commission issuing a number of advisory letters to the affected entities to advise of invalidity of such documentation and the need to withdraw the invalid B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Sworn Affidavits or CIPC EME B-BBEE Certificates.   Thus, the purpose of this Practice Guide  was to set out the approach for stakeholders to determine the validity of B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Sworn Affidavits and CIPC EME B-BBEE Certificates for consistency.   This Practice Guide replaced Practice Guide 01 of 2018 as of 01 November 2022.   Certificate Collection Services  a re available to in understanding the validity of B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Sworn Affidavits and CIPC EME B-BBEE Certificates.

Parliament of the Republic of South Africa | 10 September 2024 Parliament, Tuesday, 10 September 2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Tourism today met with the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) to discuss the different tourism development programmes the two entities are implementing on behalf of the Department of Tourism. The NEF gave an update on the Transformation Fund, a funding initiative targeting tourism businesses in previously disadvantaged communities. The entity’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mzwamadoda Dayimani, explained that the partnership and co-funding arrangement between NEF and the department applies to all transactions supported under the programme. “The department funds through a grant, limited to R5 million per transaction and if a transaction value is more than R10 million, the NEF funds the excess. The NEF portion is funded through a repayable loan,” Mr Dayimani said. A number of the projects supported through this Fund are still in the development stage and servicing their loans. After paying off the loans, the projects are expected to be self-sustainable and create more jobs. The funding also comes with post-investment support to ensure they meet their financial targets and repay the loans. SEFA Acting CEO, Mr Nkosikhona Mbatha, presented a progress report on the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) to the committee. This Fund seeks to increase growth and transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the Tourism BBBEE Sector Codes. It also addresses funding challenges faced by enterprises in the tourism sector. TEF’s core funding activities focus on accommodation, hospitality and related services, travel and related services, and tourism-related products that support the development of the tourism sector in South Africa. The committee Chairperson, Ms Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe, said the department should provide additional funding for the programme to accommodate increasing demand, implement awareness programmes, and strengthen post-funding support to ensure the funded projects are sustainable. “NEF must also increase its own funding because it is clear that there is a demand for this support and should consider stretching the repayment period because tourism projects take long to break even,” said the Chairperson. Commenting on the SEFA presentation, Ms Mnganga-Gcabashe, said the entity should expedite processing applications for funding as there seems to be slow progress. She also advised the two agencies and the department to consider the quality of jobs created through these programmes versus the quantity of menial jobs. “We also need to ensure equitable geographical share of the programmes. Instead of approving projects in more developed areas, we must spread to previously disadvantaged communities,” she said. ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON TOURISM, MS LUNGI-MNGANGA-GCABASHE For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer: Name: Sakhile Mokoena Cell: 081 705 2130 E-mail:  smokoena@parliament.gov.za ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.parliament.gov.za/press-releases/media-statement-funding-agencies-brief-committee-about-tourism-business-development-programmes

Jan Vermeulen | 11 September 2024 For South Africa to become competitive in a global technology economy, major intervention is needed in the country’s basic education system. “Teaching our kids Maths Literacy and allowing them to pass at 30% doesn’t help drive the agenda of digital and economic inclusion,” says Busi Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa. Mavuso spoke on a panel at a media event for the  Our Digital Horizons  report, produced by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA) in partnership with Naspers. The report found, among other things, that South Africa must double its current level of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduates to become globally competitive in the digital platform economy. Citing a World Economic Forum article produced by Statista, the report said STEM graduates make up only 18% of the total in South Africa. This figure exceeds 30% in technology leaders like India, the United Arab Emirates, and South Korea. “I really hope that, from a government perspective, we’re looking at addressing the standards and quality of basic education,” Mavuso said. Mavuso echoed a sentiment expressed by the event’s programme director, businessman Andile Khumalo. “We don’t have an unemployment problem. We have an unemployability problem,” Khumalo said. South Africa’s unemployment has reached crisis levels, with Stats SA most recently reporting that the portion of the population without work has risen to 33.5%. Under the expanded definition of unemployment, which includes discouraged jobseekers, the figure is 42.6%. Bloomberg has reported that South Africa’s unemployment figure is the highest among all the countries it tracks. Youth unemployment has also reached desperate levels in South Africa. The percentage of people aged 15–34 who are unemployed and not in education or training has reached 35.2%. Mavuso and Khumalo argue that these figures are so high because job seekers have not been equipped with the skills to be employed in the formal sector. “It can’t be right that in South Africa today, we still have schools that don’t teach maths and science because they don’t have maths and science teachers,” said Mavuso. “We’re never going to be able to get that 18% STEM to 30% if you don’t actually address that,” she added. “If there’s one big takeout from this report, it’s really trying to ensure that our education system responds to where the country, the global economy, the world is going.” The Department of Basic Education has previously hit back at criticism of South Africa’s 30% matric pass mark, saying it’s an oversimplification of how it really works. “If you get 30% in all the subjects, then you don’t pass. That’s why we are saying the 30% is not a pass,” basic education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said. “It’s conditional… if you look at the complex requirements that are there for everyone to enable them to pass at different levels.” Mahlanga explained that  South Africa has three levels of matric pass : bachelor’s, diploma, and higher certificate. For a bachelor’s pass, matriculants need at least 50% in four subjects. They can still pass with 40% in two subjects and 30% in one subject. This is supposed to grant entry into research universities. To get a diploma pass, school students must pass four subjects at 40%. The others can be at 30%. This is supposed to grant entry into technical universities and colleges. At higher certificate level, matrics pass if they achieve 40% in three subjects, so long as the others are at least 30%. Mhlanga said South African matriculants are not only obtaining entry into local universities, but also higher education institutions around the world. “The standard of education here equips the young person to go anywhere in the world,” stated Mhlanga. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://mybroadband.co.za/news/technology/559985-maths-literacy-and-30-pass-rate-causing-a-skills-crisis.html

Lee-Yandra Paulsen | 11 September 2024 The Do More Foundation’s Township Economy Programme is making significant strides in empowering female entrepreneurs in South Africa’s townships, helping to address the gender disparity in unemployment. Women in the country consistently face higher unemployment rates than men across all education levels. According to Statistics South Africa, from Quarter 2:2014 to Quarter 2:2024, unemployment among women with tertiary qualifications rose sharply from 15.1% to 26.9%. Women with matric qualifications saw a similar increase, with their unemployment rate rising from 28.8% to 39.5%. The Do More Foundation said it is actively working to bridge this gap. The Foundations Partnerships Manager Iris Naidoo explained, “Our programme has been operational since 2019, and the core objective is to empower young women in rural communities as sustainable business owners.” She noted that the initiative provides women with practical skills and essential business knowledge, allowing them to navigate and overcome challenges such as poverty, social barriers, poor infrastructure, and limited resources.“By fostering resilience and self-confidence, the programme enables participants to become the primary breadwinners in their families,” Naidoo added. She stated that the success of the Township Economy Programme is largely due to its collaborative approach. The foundation works closely with a range of stakeholders, including the government, the private sector, businesses, and local communities. Naidoo emphasized that these partnerships are critical for the programme’s success. “The involvement of these stakeholders ensures effective delivery on the ground and provides the necessary support tailored to the needs of the candidates.” Naidoo further highlighted the importance of cooperation and communication in ensuring the programme’s impact. “The emphasis on partnership over ownership is what sets this initiative apart. Acknowledging the complexity of development and maintaining open and honest communication about the challenges we face is crucial to our success,” she concluded. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://vocfm.co.za/npo-empowers-female-entrepreneurs-in-south-africa/