Latest news with #Mashatile
TimesLIVE
11 hours ago
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
Skills for a changing world: embracing the youth for meaningful economic participation
Amid a rapidly transforming global economy, one truth remains constant: South Africa's greatest asset is its young people. This Youth Month, as we reflect on the courage of the 1976 generation, we must also confront the urgent task before us — ensuring today's youth are equipped with the skills they need not only to participate in the economy, but to lead and shape it. We are not short of talent or ambition. Young people are brimming with ideas, energy and vision. What they lack are pathways. The skills crisis we face is not just about education — it's about access, equity and relevance. The exclusion of black South Africans from meaningful skills training under apartheid has left deep scars. Designed to limit, not uplift, apartheid's education and labour policies robbed generations of the opportunity to thrive. Today's high youth unemployment — over 45% — is not just an economic failure; it is the legacy of a deliberate historical injustice. Yet we cannot only look to the past. Our failure to reform outdated models of education and training is also perpetuating the crisis. Too many of our systems are still preparing young people for jobs that no longer exist. I agree with Deputy President Paul Mashatile's statement during his Youth Day address that, 'South Africa must address the structural challenges in its economy to tackle inequality and the growing mismatch between education and labour market demands'. He went on to say: 'There is urgent need to future-proof our young people with adaptable skills and the necessary capabilities to navigate the evolving labour market and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our economy and industries in an era of rapid technological and social transformation.' Being conscious of what has contributed to the issues young people face, we must now concentrate on paths rather than pit stops. As stated explicitly by Mashatile, , 'This is more than just a financial issue. It is a moral emergency. It affects our whole society and demands urgent action from all sectors, including government, business and communities at large.' Let us commit to a South Africa where a girl in a rural village has the same opportunity to code, create and lead as anyone else. Let us build systems that don't just prepare youth for work but prepare them to reshape the future of work No-one should be left behind; we must ensure that every young South African leaves school with a tangible next step: into a job, a business, a skill or further education. To prepare for the South African economy of the future, we must: Modernise education, especially Stem and TVET; Expand digital and green infrastructure in townships and rural areas; Reform public procurement to favour youth- and women-owned businesses; Support fintech solutions for youth credit access; and Embed entrepreneurial education and financial literacy from an early age. The 21st century economy demands a new vision that includes digitisation, climate change, artificial intelligence and the rise of the green economy, which is reshaping work. We must therefore prioritise: Digital skills — from coding to cybersecurity and data analytics; ensure authenticity in AI and data analytics, we must centre human behaviour, acknowledging its influence on data, algorithms and decisions. This means designing systems that are not only intelligent but also ethical, transparent, and accountable to the people they serve; Green skills — including sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and climate resilience; Entrepreneurial and co-operative skills — empowering youth to create rather than wait for opportunities; Critical thinking and civic engagement — enabling youth to understand and transform their environments; and Land Skills — including agribusiness management, mechanisation, drone technology, commercial and enterprise development, industrial and economic skills. These skills should further include export market and trade skills. Skills development must not just serve the labour market; it must serve society. Young people must be equipped not only to find work, but to build a more just, sustainable and inclusive economy. This is where the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) comes into the picture. The HRDC aims to reduce the scourge of poverty, inequality and unemployment through creating platforms for social partners to deliberate on the country's skills and human capital development. Our economic transformation must be people-centred. Skills must foster critical consciousness, not just compliance. As education theorist Paulo Freire argues, we must move from 'banking education' to empowering pedagogy — helping youth understand their world and act to change it. Young people must take up opportunities that are available to them to build a better future. Government has made available initiatives like: the Youth Employment Service; NYDA grants; Sefa loans; the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which provide valuable stepping stones; and a South African National Service Institute (Sansi), which create a range of nationwide interventions and programmes with sustainable and clearly defined opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, artificial intelligence, coding and robotics, energy and related value chains, among many others. The Youth of 1976 have paved the path and we do not start from scratch. Let us commit to a South Africa where a girl in a rural village has the same opportunity to code, create and lead as anyone else. Let us build systems that don't just prepare youth for work but prepare them to reshape the future of work. The future imagined and fought for by the generation of 1976 is the one of dignity, equity and shared prosperity. In the words of the Mashatile, young people deserve nothing less than a future in which their skills, creativity and determination may thrive in a world that is constantly changing. • Gadija Brown, special economic adviser to the deputy president
The South African
11 hours ago
- Business
- The South African
Paul Mashatile highlights South Africa's role as chair of the G20
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has highlighted the importance of solidarity and collaboration in today's rapidly evolving global landscape. Delivering a public lecture at St. Petersburg State University, the Deputy President explained that South Africa's Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) comes at a time characterised by geopolitical tensions and economic disparities. 'As we gather here today, amidst the tumultuous global crises characterised by rising geopolitical tensions, trade wars, unemployment, inequality, poverty, armed conflicts, and climate catastrophe, it has become very clear that the world needs solidarity now more than ever,' the Deputy President said on Thursday. Deputy President Mashatile arrived in Russia this week for a working visit aimed at strengthening economic and trade ties between the two nations. The visit focuses on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries in sectors such as agriculture, automotive, energy, and mining industries, as well as cooperation in science and technology. Deputy President Mashatile's speech highlighted South Africa's role as the current chair of the G20 and its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. South Africa's G20 Presidency theme: 'Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability' articulates the necessary principles of fostering a more inclusive global community. 'Only through exercising solidarity and identifying with each other's struggles can we do justice to the notion of international community or 'Ubuntu'.' Deputy President Mashatile reiterated the importance of global solidarity, urging those present to work together to create a more equitable world. 'We aim to capitalise on the prospects of globalisation while limiting its risks and ensuring that the benefits of economic progress and technological advancement are shared by all,' he said. He called for unity, adding that 'we must build upon that legacy and strengthen our cooperation in science, technology, research, and innovation'. Universities like St. Petersburg State University can play a pivotal role in bridging the priorities of BRICS, the African Union, and the G20. 'Our future lies in knowledge economies, and your institution is a natural partner in this effort,' Mashatile added. The country's second-in-command praised the university's Faculty of International Relations and the Institute for African Studies for their engagement with scholars across Africa. He extended an invitation for deeper collaborations with leading South African institutions, emphasising the mutual benefits that such partnerships could foster. The Deputy President highlighted the university's impressive legacy, noting that it has produced numerous renowned figures, including President Vladimir Putin and the Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin. 'The presence of so many renowned scholars, leaders, and diplomats here today is a testament to the university's continued relevance in shaping discourse on global affairs.' The Deputy President reflected on the historical ties between South Africa and Russia, expressing gratitude for the support received during the anti-apartheid struggle. Despite the prevailing geopolitical environment, he said South Africa is steadfast in its commitment to this course. '… And with our G20 Presidency, we possess a unique opportunity to influence the global discourse on critical issues.' The G20 has a significant role to play in fostering global cooperation, collaboration and partnership to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda. He announced the country's G20 Presidency will, through its four overarching priorities, seek to address challenges that stifle the ability of the Global South to achieve desired levels of growth and development. In addition, South Africa will take steps to enhance disaster resilience and response. The country also aims to ensure debt sustainability for low-income nations, mobilise financing for a Just Energy Transition, and seek to leverage critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Business Insider
15 hours ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Putin's words to South Africa, as the country vows never to forget Moscow's anti-apartheid aid
Russian President Vladimir Putin recently welcomed South Africa's Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, in a meeting intended to strengthen the two countries' long-standing relationship. Russian President Putin recently met South African Deputy President Mashatile to enhance bilateral relations. Russia and South Africa form a historical bond with shared global political interests. Putin highlighted the outcome of the 2023 Africa-Russia summit and plans for joint actions until 2026. Despite modest trade numbers and distinct cultures and languages, Russia and South Africa have a long-standing connection molded by history and common global interests. During their conversation, Putin stressed the importance of their bilateral ties, adding that Russia and South Africa "share solidarity when it comes to international agenda items" and that the two countries coordinate their efforts on global platforms. "You know that following the second Africa-Russia summit that took place in 2023, here in St Petersburg, we adopted a significant package of joint documents that include the program declaration and the plan of action till 2026,' the Russian president remarked. Putin also stated that he keeps in communication with President Ramaphosa and sent his best wishes through Mashatile, as seen on Sputnik. He emphasized that improving cooperation with African nations, especially South Africa, remained a significant priority for Russia. Ties between Russia and South Africa Though Russia accounts for only 0.4% of South Africa's imports, it is overshadowed by the United States, United Kingdom, and the European Union. However, the two nations have a strong political relationship. Both are founding members of the BRICS alliance, working closely together on political and economic issues that threaten Western dominance. Deputy President Mashatile hailed Russia for its historical role in South Africa's independence, saying, "The people of South Africa will never forget Moscow's help in their liberation from apartheid." His sentiments are similar to those expressed by President Cyril Ramaphosa last year, who referred to Russia as a "valued ally" who stood with South Africa from the beginning of its battle. The meeting comes as South Africa relationship with the U.S hits a snag. In February, the nation declared that it was looking for additional nuclear partners, including Russia and Iran, to assist boost its nuclear energy capability. While this might boost ties with Moscow, analysts worry that it could exacerbate tensions with the United States and jeopardize current energy accords.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
SA Human Rights Commission urges clarity on land expropriation policy
Deputy President Paul Mashatile's recent promise to return the land to the people and take it from the banks has resulted in the SA Human Rights Commission raising concerns over lack of legal and legislative frameworks to ensure equitable redistribution of land. Image: Bongiwe Mchunu / Independent Newspapers The SA Human Rights Commission has called on government to distinguish between acceptable legal instruments that enable administrative procedures and those that substantively achieve constitutional obligation following the recent enactment of the country's Land Expropriation policy. The Commission has accused government of pushing a concerning public discourse both nationally and globally over this policy with no clear legislative framework to achieve equitable land redistribution. "The South African Human Rights Commission (Commission/SAHRC) has observed, with concern, public discourse at national and global platforms, whereby, the Expropriation Act is portrayed as a key component of South Africa's land reform agenda. The position of the SAHRC is that the Expropriation Act does not clarify the conditions for equitable redistribution of land. Neither does it represent a compensation framework that is historically sensitive. It merely delineates the procedures and conditions under which the State may acquire privately owned land. The Commission emphasises the importance of distinguishing between legal instruments that enable administrative procedures and those that substantively achieve constitutional obligation," the Commission said on Tuesday. The Commission's statement of concern comes just a week after deputy president Paul Mashatile promised the return of land to black people saying this will be done without the interference of banking institutions. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading IOL reports that Mashatile made this commitment during a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly on Thursday with Mashatile saying the government was determined to protect land reform beneficiaries from being trapped by commercial debt. 'Our role as a new government is to return the land to the people and do it in such a way that we protect them from the commercial don't want a situation where they lose land again because of loans," he said. Last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law a bill allowing land seizures by the state without compensation - a move that put him at odds with some members of his government within the GNU. While speaking during a recent National Assembly debate, DA MP, Willie Aucamp indicated that the DA will continue to oppose 'Expropriation Without Compensation" as it "threatens investor confidence, destabilises the agricultural sector, and ultimately jeopardises jobs and food security." It is these sentiments that the SAHRC said it is concerned about with the Commission having called on the government to take the necessary steps in ensuring reasonable legislative steps to safeguard the rights of landowners. "Section 25 of the Constitution mandates the State to take reasonable legislative and other measures, within its reasonable resources, to foster conditions that enable citizens to gain access to land on an equitable basis. Since the enactment, of the Constitution, no legislative measures have been taken by the State to give effect to Section 25 (5) of the Constitution. The State's continued failure to enact specific legislation to give effect to Section 25 (5) of the Constitution enables prevailing context of policy incoherence regarding land rights," the Commission stated. The National Department of Agriculture and Land Reform referred the matter to Department of Public Works who are the custodians for the Expropriation Act. "The Expropriation Act is the law that is administered by the Department of Public Works. Your questions should be directed there, as indicated the Expropriation Act is currently legislation/law in the country. It should also be indicated that South Africa has had an Expropriation Act which was enacted in 1975," the department said.
Eyewitness News
4 days ago
- Business
- Eyewitness News
Mashatile encourages youth to pursue entrepreneurship, says it's 'key to building a better future'
JOHANNESBURG - As concern grows over youth unemployment, Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasised that government was making efforts to tackle economic exclusion through collaboration with various partners. Mashatile delivered the keynote address at the official Youth Day commemoration on Monday, held at the North West University's Rec Farm Stadium in Potchefstroom. He described the rising number of young people not in education, employment, or training as deeply troubling and out of step with the ideals fought for by the youth of 1976. The deputy president also urged young people to pursue entrepreneurship rather than wait for job opportunities. "In this regard, the government is collaborating with stakeholders like the Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator to combat youth economic exclusion by addressing the demand-supply mismatch in the South African labour market. In this day and age, entrepreneurship in one of the keys to building a better future."
