This marks a significant milestone for our nation as over 200,000 young South Africans begin work in schools across the country. This massive employment drive is part of the Basic Education Employment Initiative, a flagship programme under the Presidential Employment Stimulus. Since its launch in 2020, this programme has played a crucial role in creating jobs and improving livelihoods in our communities.
A Nation Committed to Youth Employment
Unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges, especially among young people. The government recognizes that creating opportunities for our youth is essential not only for individual growth but also for the future prosperity of the entire nation.
The Basic Education Employment Initiative was established to address this need head-on. By placing young people in schools, the programme does more than just provide jobs—it helps improve the quality of education and strengthens the foundations of our future.
What Is the Basic Education Employment Initiative?
This initiative is a joint effort between the Department of Basic Education and provincial education departments. It focuses on creating employment opportunities in the education sector, particularly for youth who are seeking their first chance in the job market.
Since 2020, the programme has supported thousands of young people, providing them with paid work experience in schools. This includes roles such as teacher assistants, administrative support, maintenance workers, and learner mentors. These roles help keep schools running smoothly and allow teachers to focus on delivering quality education.
Funding and Support: A Combined Effort
The success of this initiative would not be possible without strong partnerships and funding support. Initially launched under the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the programme now receives funding from the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Labour Activation Programme alongside national government support.
This funding ensures that young workers are paid fair wages while gaining valuable experience. It also supports the training and mentoring they need to build skills that will help them secure future employment.
Impact on Schools and Communities
The arrival of over 200,000 young people working in schools is more than just a numbers game. It is a visible sign of hope and progress in communities that need it most.
- Better support for learners: With more hands to help, learners receive more attention and guidance.
- Improved school environments: Maintenance and administrative staff ensure schools are clean, safe, and well-managed.
- Empowered youth: Young people develop workplace skills, gain confidence, and contribute positively to their communities.
- Stimulated local economies: Wages earned by these workers often go back into local businesses, supporting small traders and service providers.
A Model for Sustainable Youth Employment
The Basic Education Employment Initiative is a model for how government programmes can create sustainable employment opportunities while addressing other critical needs. It aligns with the broader goals of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which aims to support livelihoods across various sectors.
By focusing on schools, the initiative tackles youth unemployment and strengthens education at the same time—a double win for South Africa.
Looking Ahead: Building on Success
As we welcome these young workers into our schools, the government remains committed to expanding and improving the programme. We are continuously working to ensure that more young people can benefit from these opportunities and that the jobs created contribute to their long-term career paths.
We also call on all stakeholders—parents, teachers, community leaders, and businesses—to support this initiative and help create an environment where young people can thrive.
The start of work for over 200,000 young people in our schools today is a proud moment for South Africa. It shows that through partnership, commitment, and innovation, we can tackle youth unemployment and improve our education system simultaneously.
This programme represents hope for a better future, not just for the young workers involved, but for every South African who believes in the power of opportunity.
Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive South Africa.
