Understanding the challenges facing SA's youth in 2025

THE month of June brings South Africa's youth to the fore.

- DR SHEETAL BHOOLA

Youth Month is all about understanding the role youth play in society and determining how we can meet their needs as a society and community.

The youth of South Africa constitute approximately one-third of South Africa's population and comprise individuals who are between the ages of 15 and 34 years.

Recent years in South Africa have been difficult for youth in our country. We have had a staggering ratio of youth unemployment coupled with schools being poorly resourced with teachers and materials for effective teaching and learning to take place.

In addition, many of our youth have become victims of sexual harassment and various forms of violence on school premises.

The sense of belonging and safety within the school community has been eroded and further exacerbated by the increasing number of teachers who have been the perpetrators and or have been witnesses to these incidents but have opted to be silent.

Parents and children now question their safety on the premises, and amidst school teachers and principals.

Schools in particular have no longer become safe spaces for our youth and it is overwhelming for many.

Also, these children have to focus on improving academic focus and achievement and try to identify their academic strengths and weaknesses to facilitate the development of a career after schooling years.

Our youth are constantly struggling with developing careers post-school and university as many graduates are not absorbed by the formal economy.