Youth unemployment in South Africa remains a critical challenge, with millions of young people struggling to enter the workforce. According to the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS: Q4 2025), the national unemployment rate stood at 31.4%, while unemployment among youth aged 15–34 reached a staggering 43.8% – one of the highest rates globally.
Nearly 5.8 million young South Africans are currently excluded from the labour market, highlighting the urgent need for skills development programmes and job creation initiatives.
Why Youth Unemployment in South Africa Remains So High
“One of the biggest barriers is that young people struggle to secure their first job,” explains Cindy Nkgoeng, HR Manager at Beefmaster Group. “Employers often require experience, but without opportunities, young people cannot gain that experience.”
This creates a cycle of unemployment that is particularly difficult to break – especially for those without access to training or workplace exposure.
Young Women Face Greater Barriers to Employment
The data also reveals a persistent gender gap. In Q1 2025, the NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) rate for youth aged 15–24 stood at 37.1%, with young women slightly more affected (37.5%) than young men (36.7%).
The disparity becomes more pronounced among those aged 15–34, where the NEET rate rises to 45.1%. Within this group, 48.1% of women are NEET compared to 42.2% of men.
“While youth unemployment affects both men and women, young women often face additional barriers,” says Nkgoeng. “They typically have fewer opportunities to gain practical workplace experience, particularly in industries like agriculture and food production.”
How Learnerships Are Helping South African Youth Gain Skills
Structured training programmes, such as learnerships, are playing a vital role in addressing youth unemployment in South Africa. These programmes combine theoretical learning with practical, on-the-job training – helping young people build both skills and confidence.
Since 2022, Beefmaster Group has implemented a learnership programme aimed at unemployed youth, focusing on meat processing and food safety.
The one-year programme includes:
- Accredited classroom training
- Hands-on experience in meat processing and handling
- Skills development in food safety and production
“Programmes like this not only tackle unemployment but also help develop scarce skills in the fresh meat industry,” Nkgoeng explains.
Real Impact: Jobs and Skills Development Through Learnerships
Since its launch, 120 learners have participated in the programme. Each participant earns an N2 certificate, part of South Africa’s National Technical Certificate (NTC), significantly improving their employability.
Importantly, the programme has already led to tangible employment outcomes: 60 previously unemployed youth have secured full-time jobs at Beefmaster Group.
Success Stories: From Learnership to Employment
Jeanette January joined the programme in 2022 and now works as a general worker in the offal department.
“During the programme, I learned practical skills like weighing, trimming, and managing tasks in a production environment,” she says. “Completing the learnership was a proud moment. I can now support myself and my family.”
Similarly, Jane Bitterbos completed the learnership in 2023 and now works as an assistant in the Health, Safety, and Environment department.
“I gained hands-on experience in meat processing, quality control, and food safety,” she explains. “When I was offered a permanent position, I felt overwhelmed with joy and relief.”
Today, she plays a key role in maintaining food safety standards and ensuring high-quality production.
“This opportunity has boosted my career by giving me practical skills and a nationally recognised qualification,” she adds.
Why Learnerships Matter for South Africa’s Future
Learnerships are proving to be a powerful solution to youth unemployment by:
- Providing real work experience
- Building industry-relevant skills
- Improving employability
- Creating pathways to permanent employment
They are especially impactful for young women, who often face additional barriers to entering the workforce.
Advice for Unemployed Youth
Bitterbos encourages other young South Africans to take advantage of opportunities like learnerships:
“Don’t be afraid to take the leap and apply. Opportunities like this can be a game-changer. Be open-minded, work hard, and make the most of the experience.”
