South Africa: Nearly Half of Young People Are Not Working or in Training

Nearly half of young people in South Africa, aged 15-34, are not classified as employed, in education or training, according to the latest figures from Stats SA. This percentage of young people, referred to as 'NEET' or Not in Employment, Education or Training, has increased from 38% in 2012 to 45% in the most recent data. NEET also encompasses individuals who are inactive due to factors like caring for family, illness, or disability, as well as those who engage in minimal work.

The NEET rate varies among South African provinces, with the Northern Cape having the highest rate at around 48% for 15-24-year-olds and 53% for 15-34-year-olds. The Western Cape, however, stands out with a relatively low NEET rate, and the gap between the NEET rates of 15-24 and 15-34-year-olds is nearly non-existent. This disparity is attributed to the lower likelihood of young people in the 15-24 age group being in school or tertiary education.

The discrepancy in NEET rates across provinces suggests that job opportunities are primarily limited to younger individuals, with those exiting education struggling to find employment.