ZAThe article discusses the traditional observance of Nelson Mandela Day, which involves dedicating 67 minutes to acts of service, and argues that this approach is outdated. It highlights South Africa's significant youth unemployment crisis, with over 60% of young people aged 15-24 unemployed. The piece critiques the current labor market's emphasis on prior work experience as a barrier to entry, particularly affecting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. It advocates for recognizing internships and workplace learning programs as essential tools for addressing youth unemployment and developing skills. The author suggests these programs should be seen as national development strategies rather than just recruitment tactics.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue of youth unemployment as a systemic problem requiring structural solutions, emphasizing the need for workplace learning and internships as developmental interventions. It criticizes the current labor market practices that perpetuate exclusion and advocates for policies (
