Job Creation, a Mission Impossible? The South African Case

Abstract

Jobs are the foundation of any economy. High levels of unemployment relate to a structural weakness in a country’s economy and could lead to poverty, inequality, social problems and even in extreme cases, a regime change. South Africa has relatively high levels of unemployment with a rate of more than 25 percent. This article aims to analyse the status quo regarding job creation and unemployment in South Africa, analysing aspects such as theory and the current reality regarding employment and government policies. The article concludes with eight integrated solutions to job creation. Possible solutions include a shared vision, effective leadership, reform regarding the relaxation of labour regulations, improved education and skills training, the improvement of the business and development environment, improved government policy implementation and service delivery, entrepreneurship development, sectoral specific economic development, and research and development. The war on unemployment requires an integrated approach and all eight solutions need to be implemented concurrently. If high levels of coordination could be achieved, jobs could be created, leading to rapid economic development.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n16p65