Unconventional Paths: Employment Strategies for Youth Deterred from Completing High School in South Africa

Motivated by a shared commitment to tackling youth unemployment, this research addresses a critical issue underscored by concerning statistics in South Africa. With the national unemployment rate at 32.3% and a staggering 45.5% among youth (Stats SA, 2024), coupled with a 50% dropout rate from Grade 9 to Grade 12, young individuals without formal certification face increasing difficulty securing employment. In light of these challenges, the case study seeks to explore effective strategies to enhance the employability of youth who have dropped out of school.

This research investigates potential pathways to employment for young people who have not completed their formal education, focusing on alternative skills development, certification options, and non-traditional routes into the workforce. The study aims to provide insight into practical solutions that can support youth in overcoming these barriers, with a goal of informing policies and practices that can improve youth employment outcomes in South Africa.