Young graduates struggle to find work in Limpopo
Despite holding an LLB and completing her articles, Thikho Khakhu remains unemployed, reflecting the ongoing youth job crisis in Limpopo.
LIMPOPO – With over 30% of young people unemployed in Limpopo, particularly graduates, 26-year-old Thikho Khakhu from Tshivhilidulu village near Dopeni has spoken out about the pain of joblessness.
Graduate speaks out on joblessness
Khakhu addressed Vhembe Mayor Freda Nkondo, and her delegation during a recent visit to Fondwe Sports Ground, where officials assessed service delivery and engaged with residents on challenges.
She described the hardship of being unemployed despite being educated.
Education does not guarantee employment
Khakhu, who also attended the imbizo, said she holds an LLB degree from the University of Venda and has completed her articles, gaining experience in the legal field.
She is currently awaiting the results of her board examinations.
“I graduated in 2023, then went to law school and started serving my articles in 2024. My articles concluded in 2025.
“I recently wrote the last two of my board exams and I am currently unemployed. It is misery and pain.
“One works hard and takes education seriously, but in the end, the situation becomes worse,” she said.
Officials urge skills development
In her response, Nkondo acknowledged the high number of unemployed people, especially graduates, describing the situation as painful and requiring urgent intervention.
She encouraged young people to consider alternative opportunities such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, agriculture and other skills development programmes that contribute to job creation and food security.
Slow progress but challenges remain
Meanwhile, during the Black Management Forum (BMF) Thohoyandou Post Provincial Budget Dialogue, MEC for Finance Kgabo Mohoai told residents that recent data from Statistics South Africa indicates that unemployment in the province is beginning to decline.
“That is a positive sign. It shows that the combined efforts of government and business are starting to make a difference, and that progress is possible when we act with focus.
“But we must be honest: a decline does not mean the problem is solved. Too many people, especially the youth, are still without work.
“This must be seen as momentum, not a conclusion – a call for all of us to do more so that progress becomes real and lasting in people’s lives,” Mohoai said.
