Description
Abstract
Background: Participation in skills development programmes is widely recognised as a crucial component of youth development initiatives. These programmes are designed to address poverty and unemployment among young people who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET). The exclusion of young people from the labour market poses a significant challenge in developing countries such as South Africa and contributes to various social problems.
Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to assess the extent to which participation in skills development programmes enhances economic participation among NEET youth. It also identifies the types of programmes which are most effective in this regard.
Methods: This study employed a qualitative document analysis (QDA) research design to examine the extent to which participation in skills development programmes enhances economic participation among young people who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET) in South Africa.
Findings: The reviewed evidence suggests that these programmes may support transitions into employment, self-employment, and income-generating activity among NEET youth in South Africa.
Originality/value: The study recommends that the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) develop a financial model to support non-governmental organisations and other non-state actors implementing youth skills development programmes, particularly those focused on technology-driven initiatives.
Keywords: Economic participation, youth unemployment, skills development, NEET youth.
