The African National Congress Youth League says President Cyril Ramaphosa will not be allowed to address young people during the upcoming June 16 commemorations in Gauteng unless unemployed attendees are allowed to submit their CVs as part of a youth employment initiative.
According to African Insider, ANCYL President Collen Malatji spoke during a media briefing on Tuesday.
He said the move forms part of the organisation’s broader campaign to tackle South Africa’s worsening youth unemployment crisis. According to statistics, South Africa’s unemployment rate rose to 32,7% in the first quarter of 2026, up from 31,4% in the previous quarter.
Youth unemployment has climbed to 45,8%, underscoring what the league described as a deepening socio-economic crisis affecting young people. Malatji said unemployment remains the “greatest crisis confronting this generation”, arguing that millions of young South Africans are excluded from economic participation despite holding qualifications.
He linked the crisis to rising levels of poverty, inequality, crime, and substance abuse in communities across the country. According to the report, the June 16 commemorations mark 50 years since the 1976 student uprising, and ANCYL wants it to move beyond symbolism and deliver practical outcomes for young people.
The league’s proposal entails that the young attendees will be encouraged to submit their CVs under a programme aimed at linking unemployed youth with opportunities.
Malatji said the president would only be allowed to address the gathering once CV submissions have been received from unemployed participants.“The president of the country will not be allowed to address before he receives all the CVs from all the unemployed youth”, Malatji said.
According to African Insider, the league called for stronger government and private sector intervention, such as expanded internship programs, greater access to workplace training, and graduate opportunities.
They further argued that increased support for youth entrepreneurship through funding, mentorship, and procurement opportunities, and called for institutions such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) to be strengthened to better support young people.The ANCYL raised concerns and highlighted matters that put pressure on youth unemployment.
The matter includes South Africa’s industrial and procurement policies, pointing that they should prioritize local manufacturing, township economies, and youth-owned businesses. They also raise concerns about illegal immigration, arguing that it contributes to pressure on jobs and public resources.
The ANCYL has called on the Minister of Employment and Labour to intensify workplace inspections during Youth Month, particularly in sectors such as retail, construction, hospitality, and manufacturing, to ensure compliance with labour laws.
Sub-Editor : Phalane Thabitha
