Finishing school is a big milestone, but what comes next? Over the last 30 years, more South African youth have completed matric than ever before. In 1994, less than a third of 25- to 34-year-olds had a matric certificate. Today, that number has nearly doubled to 57%.
While this is great news, the reality is that many young people struggle to find jobs or further their education. South Africa’s economy is weak, and youth unemployment is at an all-time high. So, what does life look like for young South Africans after school?
Using data from the Quarterly Labour Force Survey, I’ve put together six key insights to help you understand the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
1. Finding a Job is Tougher Than Ever
A decade ago, matriculants had a better shot at getting a job. Between 2014 and 2018, about 40% of young people with a matric were employed. But by 2024, that number dropped to just 30%.
Even worse, the chances of finding work with a matric today are about the same as they were for young people without a matric 8 to 10 years ago. And it’s not just matriculants—job prospects have declined even for those with post-school qualifications.
2. More Young People Are Stuck in Limbo
Fewer matriculants are moving on to work or further education.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, about 44-45% of young people with a matric were not in employment, education, or training (NEET). By 2022, that number peaked at 55%. In early 2024, it was still high at nearly 50%, meaning one in every two matriculants was stuck without a job or study opportunity.
The total number of recent matriculants not working or studying has increased by 500,000 since 2015. The NEET rate is rising across all age groups, including those aged 25-34, where it jumped from 45% in 2014 to 52% in 2024.
3. Matric Still Gives You an Advantage
Despite the challenges, having a matric certificate is still better than not having one. In 2024, nearly half of matriculants aged 15-24 were NEET—but for those who dropped out before matric, the number was even higher: almost 8 out of 10 were not in work or school. A matric certificate increases your chances of getting a job or furthering your education.
4. Job Hunting Takes Longer
Finding a job isn’t just difficult—it’s also taking longer.
In 2014, about 27% of unemployed matriculants aged 15-24 had been looking for work for over a year. By 2024, that number grew to 32%. For older job seekers (25-34 years old), the situation is even worse—half of those with a matric have been searching for over a year.
Long-term unemployment can impact mental health, especially for young men. The longer people stay disconnected from work or education, the harder it is to break the cycle.
5. Post-School Education Isn’t Keeping Up
The government has big plans to improve access to further education, but progress is slow. Enrolments in universities and colleges aren’t increasing fast enough to match the growing number of matriculants.
South Africa’s tertiary enrolment rate is falling behind other developing nations. In 2021, only 25% of young people in South Africa were enrolled in higher education, compared to 41% in Indonesia, 57% in Brazil, and 67% in China.
To make things worse, the government is struggling with debt, which means less money for education. Unless this changes, opportunities for post-school study will remain limited.
6. Where You Live Matters
Your chances of finding work or further education depend a lot on where you live. In 2023/2024, about one-third of matriculants in the Western Cape were NEET. But in the North West province, that number was more than double—67%.
What Can Be Done?
Fixing these challenges requires two big changes: improving the job market and expanding access to post-school education. However, this won’t happen without better economic growth.
While big changes take time, there are things that individuals can do to help:
- Encourage education: Support young people in finishing school.
- Promote further studies: Push them to pursue a post-school qualification where possible.
- Create opportunities: Use social networks to help youth find internships, jobs, or apprenticeships. Assist with CVs, referrals, and job applications.
A Mindset Shift
Young people also need to be proactive. Be open to different opportunities, whether it’s in further education, starting a small business, or learning new skills. The job market is tough, but resilience, networking, and a willingness to adapt can make all the difference.
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