IN CONVERSATION WITH LINDOKUHLE YENDE
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The National Youth Unemployment Movement (NYUM) acknowledges the
11:35
increase in South Africa's national minimum wage to R30.23 an hour, effective
March 1, 2026. While we welcome this development, we emphasize that youth
unemployment remains a critical issue, with rates at 46.1% for 18-34-year-olds.
This wage increase affects us, the youth, in a big way. On one hand, it means
potentially higher earnings for those with jobs. On the other, it could lead to
fewer job opportunities if businesses struggle to absorb the increased costs. For
many young people, this hike might make employers more hesitant to hire –
and that's a risk we can't take.
NYUM urges policymakers to balance wage increases with job creation and
economic growth strategies. We need initiatives addressing the skills mismatch
and fostering employment opportunities for young people.
We reiterate our call for a National Youth Unemployment Dialogue to tackle
this crisis collectively.
11:35
increase in South Africa's national minimum wage to R30.23 an hour, effective
March 1, 2026. While we welcome this development, we emphasize that youth
unemployment remains a critical issue, with rates at 46.1% for 18-34-year-olds.
This wage increase affects us, the youth, in a big way. On one hand, it means
potentially higher earnings for those with jobs. On the other, it could lead to
fewer job opportunities if businesses struggle to absorb the increased costs. For
many young people, this hike might make employers more hesitant to hire –
and that's a risk we can't take.
NYUM urges policymakers to balance wage increases with job creation and
economic growth strategies. We need initiatives addressing the skills mismatch
and fostering employment opportunities for young people.
We reiterate our call for a National Youth Unemployment Dialogue to tackle
this crisis collectively.
