Tackling Youth Unemployment in South Africa and Nigeria: A Comprehensive Overview

On September 4, 2025, the Gauteng provincial government relaunched its youth employment program, Nasi Ispani Reloaded, with a budget of R50 million aimed at addressing the high youth unemployment rate in the province. Premier Panyaza Lesufi emphasized the initiative's goal to provide trade skills and short-term job placements for unemployed youth aged 18 to 35. The program, which offers skills in plumbing, carpentry, and upholstery, aims to create 45,000 job placements for the 2024/25 period. Gauteng provincial government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga stated, “Nasi Ispani is an important initiative created by the provincial government in Gauteng to give opportunities to young people who are desperate for employment.” However, critics, including opposition parties, have raised concerns about the program being politically motivated, suggesting it may serve as an election strategy for the African National Congress (ANC).

Gauteng relaunches Nasi Ispani to tackle youth unemploymentNSFAS and NYDA join forces to empower rural youth through education and entrepreneurship1,146 Kaduna youths selected for NDE RHEI second phase80m Nigerian youth jobless, 1,500 schools shut in two years – ReportSanwo-Olu unveils graduate internship scheme to create 1,000 jobs

In a parallel effort, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) have partnered to enhance job and entrepreneurship opportunities for rural youth in South Africa. This collaboration aims to decentralize access to educational and vocational training, addressing the staggering youth unemployment rate of 46.1% among individuals aged 15-34 as of the first quarter of 2025. NSFAS Acting CEO Waseem Carrim noted the importance of moving beyond mere access to education, emphasizing the need for effective pathways to employment.

NSFAS and NYDA join forces to empower rural youth through education and entrepreneurshipGauteng relaunches Nasi Ispani to tackle youth unemploymentSanwo-Olu unveils graduate internship scheme to create 1,000 jobs1,146 Kaduna youths selected for NDE RHEI second phase80m Nigerian youth jobless, 1,500 schools shut in two years – ReportFG gives N500,000 each to youths in Ogun State

In Nigeria, a report by Plan International Nigeria highlighted a dire situation where nearly 80 million youths are unemployed, exacerbated by insecurity and the closure of over 1,500 schools in the past two years. The report, presented during the Nigerian Youth Dialogue, warned that unless urgent action is taken, the country risks losing its greatest asset—its youth. Advocacy and Youth Programme Officer Jonathan Abakpa stated, “This is not just a statistic. It represents shattered dreams and wasted talent.” The report calls for expanded job creation initiatives and effective vocational training linked to industry needs.

80m Nigerian youth jobless, 1,500 schools shut in two years – ReportSanwo-Olu unveils graduate internship scheme to create 1,000 jobsNSFAS and NYDA join forces to empower rural youth through education and entrepreneurshipGauteng relaunches Nasi Ispani to tackle youth unemployment1,146 Kaduna youths selected for NDE RHEI second phase

In response to the unemployment crisis, Kaduna State has launched the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI2), selecting 1,146 youths for its second phase. The initiative aims to equip participants with skills for self-reliance and economic contribution. State Coordinator Francis Ambianto emphasized the importance of commitment and discipline among trainees, stating that successful participants could create job opportunities for others.

1,146 Kaduna youths selected for NDE RHEI second phase

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State announced the Graduate Internship Placement Programme (GIPP), which aims to create 1,000 jobs by placing trained interns with employers. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to harness youth potential and drive innovation across various sectors. Sanwo-Olu's administration is actively engaging public and private sectors to foster an environment conducive to youth empowerment.

Sanwo-Olu unveils graduate internship scheme to create 1,000 jobs

Both South Africa and Nigeria face significant challenges in addressing youth unemployment, with various initiatives launched to provide skills and job opportunities. While programs like Nasi Ispani Reloaded and the GIPP show promise, critics question their long-term sustainability and potential political motivations. In Nigeria, the alarming statistics underscore the urgency for comprehensive strategies to engage and empower the youth, ensuring they are not only beneficiaries but also contributors to national development.

Gauteng relaunches Nasi Ispani to tackle youth unemployment