Youth Urged to Pursue Trade Careers as South Africa Battles Unemployment
Youth Urged to Pursue Trade Careers South Africa is once again in the global spotlight for its persistently high unemployment rate, with young people bearing the brunt of the crisis. As millions of graduates and school leavers struggle to secure jobs, the call for youth to pursue trade careers is growing louder. Experts argue that skilled trades, long undervalued in society, may hold the key to reducing unemployment and revitalising the economy.
A Worsening Youth Unemployment Crisis
Statistics South Africa’s most recent data paints a worrying picture. Youth unemployment remains stubbornly high, with close to 60% of South Africans between the ages of 15 and 24 unable to find work. Even among those aged 25–34, unemployment hovers well above the global average. The result is a generation trapped between poverty and dwindling opportunities.
One of the biggest challenges is the mismatch between education and labour market needs. Thousands of young people graduate from universities each year, but many industries are saturated with office-based professionals. Meanwhile, industries such as construction, manufacturing, energy, and automotive struggle to fill essential technical and artisanal positions.
Why Trade Careers Matter
Skilled trades form the backbone of every economy. Electricians, plumbers, welders, mechanics, and technicians keep infrastructure functioning, businesses running, and households safe. Without these workers, critical services grind to a halt.
In South Africa, demand for artisans is growing rapidly. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has warned that the country needs at least 60,000 qualified artisans annually to meet economic and infrastructure development needs. Yet, fewer than half that number are produced each year. This gap not only slows down national development projects but also contributes to the unemployment crisis.
Government and Industry Interventions
Recognising this shortage, government and the private sector have begun placing renewed emphasis on artisan training. The National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 outlines the urgent need to scale up the production of artisans and ensure they meet global standards.
Youth Urged to Pursue Trade Careers To achieve this, the government has invested heavily in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, equipping them with modern facilities and aligning curricula with industry requirements. Several provinces have also introduced artisan development programs aimed at training youth in trades that are in short supply.
Youth Urged to Pursue Trade Careers
On the private sector side, companies in the construction, mining, automotive, and energy industries have expanded learnerships and apprenticeships. These programs allow young people to gain hands-on experience while earning a stipend, increasing their chances of employment once qualified.
Changing Perceptions Around Trades
For decades, a university degree was considered the ultimate pathway to success, while trade careers were dismissed as “low status” jobs. This stigma has discouraged many young South Africans from considering trades as a first choice.
However, with unemployment rising even among graduates, perceptions are shifting. Skilled artisans are now in demand across the country and often command competitive salaries. For instance:
- Qualified electricians can earn well above the average South African salary.
- Plumbers and welders are sought after in both urban and rural areas.
- Auto mechanics and technicians are essential in maintaining the transport and logistics sector.
More importantly, trades are less vulnerable to automation compared to some office-based jobs, meaning they will remain relevant in the future.
Trades as a Path to Entrepreneurship
Youth Urged to Pursue Trade Careers One of the strongest arguments for trade careers is their potential to unlock entrepreneurship. Many artisans eventually establish their own small businesses, offering services within their communities and employing others.
For example, a plumber who starts independently can expand into a company employing assistants and apprentices. A welder might take on large construction contracts, while an electrician could service households and commercial buildings. These businesses not only provide livelihoods for the owners but also stimulate local economies by creating jobs.
This entrepreneurial potential is vital in a country where job creation lags behind population growth. By equipping youth with trade skills, South Africa can foster a generation of job creators rather than job seekers.
Opportunities in Emerging Sectors
Another overlooked advantage of trades is their role in emerging industries. With South Africa moving towards renewable energy, there is a growing need for solar panel installers, wind turbine technicians, and energy system electricians. Similarly, the expansion of the manufacturing sector and new infrastructure projects require welders, machinists, and mechanics.
These opportunities highlight how trades are not outdated careers, but rather essential to the country’s transition into modern and sustainable industries.
Steps Youth Can Take
For young people considering this path, experts recommend:
- Exploring TVET Colleges – These institutions offer affordable, practical training aligned with industry needs.
- Applying for Apprenticeships – Many companies sponsor apprentices, giving students real-world exposure.
- Taking Advantage of Learnerships – These programs combine theory and practical experience, often with stipends.
- Networking with Industry Bodies – Organisations such as the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB) provide valuable resources.
- Viewing Trades as a First Choice – Instead of seeing trades as a last resort, young people should recognise their earning and entrepreneurial potential.
Overcoming Barriers
While the opportunities are clear, challenges remain. TVET colleges face capacity constraints, and some learners struggle with access to funding, transport, or resources. Additionally, social stigma continues to discourage young people from enrolling in technical programs.
Experts argue that greater awareness campaigns, industry partnerships, and financial support will be necessary to make trades more attractive and accessible. Importantly, success stories of artisans who built thriving careers should be highlighted to inspire others.
Looking Ahead
South Africa cannot afford to ignore the power of skilled trades in addressing unemployment. Encouraging the youth to pursue artisan careers is not only about reducing joblessness, but also about building a stronger, more resilient economy.
By investing in TVET colleges, expanding apprenticeships, and changing social attitudes, the country can bridge its skills gap while giving young people meaningful opportunities. The future of South Africa’s workforce lies not only in lecture halls but also in workshops, factories, and construction sites where the next generation of artisans can thrive.
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