The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, visited the Midvaal Christian Centre on March 23 to lead the second Youth Skills and Business Imbizo.

The event was packed with local young people searching for a way into the job market. They were joined by government officials, skills development agencies, and training authorities (SETAs) to discuss how to tackle the growing unemployment crisis.

During her keynote speech, Gondwe highlighted the realities facing young South Africans. She noted that youth unemployment is currently at approximately 46%, with over four million young people classed as the NEET cohort, those not in employment, education, or training.

In Midvaal specifically, young people make up 58% of the population. Gondwe urged the local council to do more by hiring qualified artisans from TVET colleges to help fix service delivery issues.

“These young people can play a meaningful role. We need business and industry as our active and committed partners. We cannot train for jobs without understanding your needs and demands. And we cannot solve unemployment without your participation.”

The Executive Mayor of Midvaal, Peter Teixeira, also spoke at the event. He encouraged the crowd to stay determined, noting that his administration is focused on creating opportunities for all. Explaining the purpose of the day, Teixeira reiterated the need for opportunities for young people.

“Young people, do not be discouraged and do not grow weary. Continue to show up in spaces and advocate for yourselves. Many young people have benefited from programmes like this and have gone on to build successful and fulfilling lives for themselves and their families.”

The mayor explained that for the past four years, the municipality has worked closely with NGOs and government departments to build programmes that help young people find work and training.

Teixeira said the Mayoral Youth Summit and related programmes have grown from humble beginnings into a powerful platform for opportunity and empowerment.

“ I want to remind you that today is about you and about building a better future for yourselves. Use this opportunity wisely. Make the most of every moment.”

The event saw presentations from different organisations and a Q&A session. Attendees had the opportunity to visit various exhibitions to find out more about the opportunities they offer.

The day ended with a clear message to the youth: do not pick and choose when it comes to opportunities, take what is available and use it to build a better future.