Where to now for our unemployed youth?

I AM gratefully remembering the youth of 1976 and I am also earnestly asking myself about the unique challenges facing the youth of 2020. I am asking this specific question, not forgetting what Covid-19 has done to the job market. In recent times. We have witnessed big business profits shrinking and followed by many restructures to contain costs. In addition, these have resulted in unintended consequences that gave rise to companies laying off a sizeable percentage of their workforce. The current situation is making it difficult to sustain significant inroads in reducing the unemployment figures.

Carefully noting the above, it is not going to be easy to find opportunities for the youth who are seeking meaningful employment. This is because most of the companies will be likely downsizing or adopting innovative business models to carefully ensure their sustainability and to remain competitive in this challenging environment.Moreover, the key question remains: is this unemployment bubble is going to be reversed, and at what cost? I am saying this because of the increasing numbers of unemployed youth in South Africa. This is especially true for the age group between 15 to 24 and this is irrespective of their academic qualifications. I am imagining a South Africa that has moved boldly in having its own self-styled Silicon Valley. A suitable place where aspiring entrepreneurs can be adequately supported and collaboratively develop their unique business ideas in a controlled environment. Carefully noting the above, I think such an action will help in progressively reducing this unemployment problem.