Government will not create jobs’ – says Ntshavheni urging youth to take opportunities in entrepreneurship

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni stated that the South African government will not create jobs for the youth, according to an interview with Newzroom Afrika. Ntshavheni argued that employment depends on economic growth and entrepreneurship, urging young citizens to drive their own economic independence during the 50th anniversary of the Soweto uprising.

Why the government will not create jobs

Ntshavheni told Newzroom Afrika that no government is going to create employment. She stated the state’s role is to create opportunities for economic development and growth, but the youth must take the “mettle into their own hands.”

The Minister pointed to Germany as a global example of sustainable employment. According to Ntshavheni, robust small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) drive employment in Germany rather than the state.

How youth can challenge government funding

Ntshavheni acknowledged that the state needs to be pushed harder to provide financial backing for young entrepreneurs. She encouraged youth to hold the government accountable for the adequacy of current funding structures.

When discussing whether 500 million is enough to fund small businesses, Ntshavheni stated that “that’s not enough.” She urged for an environment where small businesses are more aggressively supported to become the primary employers in the country.

The significance of the Soweto uprising anniversary

The remarks coincide with the 50th anniversary of the June 16 Soweto uprising. Ntshavheni urged today’s youth to pioneer a new revolution centered on economic independence to deal with unemployment.

South Africa currently battles one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world. This has shifted the national discourse from political liberation to economic survival for millions of young citizens.

What may happen next

If young entrepreneurs follow the Minister’s call to challenge the state, the government may be forced to re-evaluate the current 500 million funding structure. Increased financial support for SMMEs could potentially lead to a rise in private-sector employment.

The youth’s response to this “economic revolution” may determine if the country sees a shift in its unemployment trajectory. A successful move toward entrepreneurship is likely to reduce the reliance on state employment over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the South African government create jobs for the youth?
No. According to Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, the government will not create employment but will instead create opportunities for economic development and growth.

What role do SMMEs play in employment according to the Minister?
Ntshavheni cited Germany as an example where sustainable employment is driven by robust small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) rather than the state.

Is the current funding for small businesses sufficient?
Minister Ntshavheni stated that 500 million to fund small businesses is “not enough” and encouraged youth to challenge the government on this figure.

Do you believe entrepreneurship is the most effective way to combat youth unemployment?