The youth advisor from the office of the premier, Tswelopele Manabile, says this as the provincial government tries to tackle the triple challenges of unemployment, inequality and poverty. She says various private and government stakeholders, which include the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Destea), will look into possible ways of helping small and upcoming businesses. Through this initiative, set to commemorate the month of June, roleplayers seek to incorporate and give small businesses and young people access into the market by showcasing various talents. Manabile says the FS premier, Sisi Ntombela, and several officials, including MECs, will be attending the expo to emphasise the importance thereof, and what can be expected post the event. 

Manabile says due to the fact that the province is mostly rural, it often makes it difficult for the province to quickly deal with the issue of youth unemployment. She says in terms of revenue and equitable share division the province does not get much and the issue of the increasing population plays a major rule too.

Manabile says we should break away from the perception that you need to be qualified in order to get a job. “If we are able to equip ourselves with the necessary skills needed for economic growth, we will be able to make an impact as the province.” She says In terms of entrepreneurship we must now focus on how to assist young entrepreneurs.

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