Free State premier Sisi Ntombela says this hampered the provincial government's ability to grow the economy as these challenges resulted in the high unemployment rate, poverty and increasing inequalities.

She says her government will contribute towards youth development through sector-specific incubation and mentorship programmes.

The provincial government is also expected to enter into a social pact with businesses in fighting youth unemployment and poverty by strengthening relationships and supply chain linkages with large businesses.

Ntombela says the provincial government and municipalities had a target of creating 50 000 jobs through the Expanded Public Works Programme by March this year, and 62 160 jobs were created.

Ntombela says if opportunities are not given to these young people this will have serious repercussions for the provincial government's economy.

She says during the provincial youth expo held this past week the government engaged and discussed some of the key elements with the government and private sectors to understand how young people are nurtured and given opportunities.

"In this financial year, we will further engage the industry by partnering with the Central University of Technology to host the 4th Industrial Revolution Summit.

"We call upon the State Information Technology Agency to strengthen their support to young people on procurement opportunities," says Ntombela.

"Theo Fourie from Columbus committed to training 250 support technicians to repair mobile phones."

"Jimmy Mooko from Nafcoc promised to work with his affiliate businesses to place 200 young graduates," she further adds.

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