Young People in South Africa in 2005

Where we're at and where we're going

The Umsobomvu Youth Fund was established in 2001 by the South African government. Our mandate is to act as a catalyst of skills development and job creation for youth aged 18 to 35. Young People in South Africa in 2005: Where were at and where were going, provides an overview of the conditions that affect young people in South Africa in relation to education, economic and civic participation, and health and wellbeing.

Based on a review of existing research plus a national study on the status of youth in the country, this report relates the main findings of the study to the current policy environment and to attempt, particularly by government and governments-supported bodies, to transform policy into practice. It is, therefore, both a report of research carried out, and a record of, and commentary on, the practice of youth development as it is evolving in contemporary South Africa with its strengths and weaknesses, achievements and short comings.

The report intents to make a case, rather than simply describes a situation, and comes from within the youth development community. In a field where pessimism is rife, it makes no apologies for highlighting what appear to be successful or potentially successful youth policies, not with the intention of claiming easy victories where reflection and self-criticism may be more appropriate, but rather to identify what is working and to encourage more efforts along similar lines.

It is hoped that this publication will spark rigorous decision and debate within the youth development community, and will enable practitioners and policy makers to successfully advocate for the consideration of the practical and strategic needs of youth in South Africa. Ultimately, this publication should help to inform the design and implementation of the South African National Youth Development Agenda.