“This is a generation that feels lost, disconnected, and unsupported,” said one researcher. “Our data proves that when young people feel seen and guided, real change happens.”

South Africa has one of the highest youth unemployment rates globally. As of 2024, 37.1% of South Africans aged 15 to 24, which is about 3.4 million individuals, were not in employment, education, or training (NEET), according to Statistics South Africa .

The risk of long-term exclusion is severe, often leading to poor mental health , social marginalisation, and dependence on social grants.

The BPS programme’s methodology included structured coaching, goal-setting, referrals to services like counselling or childcare, and continuous check-ins. The focus was not just employment but holistic wellbeing.

“I didn’t know where to start. It was a blank page,” said a 21-year-old woman who completed two sessions. A young man added: “Before this, I didn’t think I could do anything meaningful with my life… Coaching helped me feel more optimistic.”

According to the research team , 40% of participants accessed learning or income-generating opportunities, while others reported marked improvements in anxiety, emotional distress, and self-esteem.

The programme also revealed stark gender disparities, with only 9% of young men rating peer support as low, compared to 24% of young women. Access to community resources, including health and psychosocial services, was widely reported as lacking.

The findings suggest that skills training alone is insufficient, but broader support systems, covering mental health, access to services, and mentorship, are essential for youth to transition successfully into work or education.

Countries across the Global South face similar youth unemployment challenges, and this research offers a scalable, community-based model. “This is not just a South African issue,” said one policy expert. “It’s a blueprint for any country trying to break the cycle of youth joblessness.”

Disclaimer: The image for the article was AI-generated