Impact of economic challenges on learners and employment

WE HAVE approached the second schooling term and South Africa’s grade 12 learners are now preparing for the final grade 12 exams.

- SHEETAL BHOOLA

The pressures today for most learners completing school are daunting considering the many challenges that lie ahead of a new school leaver in South Africa.

The recent export tariff of 30% imposed by Trump on all South African exports in The United States has detrimental impacts for our economy.

Wine, Macadamia nuts and our fresh produce contribute substantially to the global and national economy and an increased tariff margin means that Americans will look to purchase alternative imported products.

Any additional price increase deemed by South African business markets would be an addition to the existing 30% which will come into effect from August 1, 2025. The Summer Citrus Programme from South Africa will most likely have a devastating impact on our economy.

The programme has ensured South Africa exports citrus during the summer months in The Northern Hemisphere because their production levels are low. This programme has also boosted the quantities and varieties of citrus products exported to the US and Ceres Fruit Growers have had a central role in this programme.

Ultimately, every South African is impacted as the ripple effect is bound to develop. A slower growing economy will be the cause of greater socioeconomic circumstances and pressures for the average South African.

Central to the anticipated economic turbulence is the aftereffects of a stagnating or shrinking economy which ultimately means fewer job opportunities for South Africans.