Republic of South Africa
South Africa introduced programs for their youth to help young people gain work experience through internships, learnerships, and volunteer opportunities. Collaborations are made with companies to create job opportunities, aiming to equip youth with practical skills and improve their employability. Additionally, South Africa addresses barriers like rural and disability-specific challenges, promoting an inclusive approach to youth development. Partnerships across government, private, and civil sectors further reinforce these efforts to integrate youth into the economy.

Last Updated: February 8, 2025
Republic of South Africa Representative

H.E. Sindisiwe Chikunga
Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Advocates for the rights of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, promoting equality and inclusion across South Africa.
Her Excellency Sindisiwe Chikunga serves as the Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities in South Africa, where she advocates for the rights and empowerment of vulnerable and marginalized groups. Her work focuses on advancing gender equality, promoting youth development, and supporting persons with disabilities to ensure an inclusive society. With a strong background in public administration and previous experience as Deputy Minister of Transport, Chikunga prioritizes initiatives that address economic inclusion, safety, and social justice for women and youth. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration across sectors, aiming to dismantle systemic barriers and foster a more equitable South Africa.
Best Practices from Republic of South Africa
Innovative Solutions in Action
Explore the impactful youth-led initiatives submitted by Republic of South Africa. These Best Practices showcase the country’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and leadership.
Revitalised National Youth Service
The primary aim of the NYS program is to mobilize young people to become active citizens of the country’s democracy, while earning an income and increasing their employability.
