Public employment programmes foster more than just jobs
Employment outcomes undoubtedly matter. But in a country where unemployment hovers at crisis levels, economic growth remains sluggish and the formal economy is unable to absorb all those seeking work, formal employment alone is an insufficient metric for real development.
Public employment programmes in South Africa offer more than just job creation, according to a recent opinion piece by Margo le Roux. While formal employment is crucial, the programs are successful when participants transition into various pathways, including micro-enterprises, further education, and skill acquisition. These outcomes contribute to broader social and economic development, building confidence, dignity, agency, and social cohesion.
The programs also invest in civil society organizations, enhancing their capacity to respond to community needs. Rather than solely focusing on formal employment, policymakers and investors should measure the range of impacts generated by public employment programmes, such as capabilities, resilience, social value, and community benefits.
This broader approach acknowledges the diverse solutions needed to tackle structural unemployment and stimulate economic growth in South Africa.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
