Event



Overcoming the Challenge of Youth Unemployment in South Africa

Lessons from Wharton CEO and Afrika Tikkun
Fareeda Griffith, Tukufu Zuberi, Marc Lubner, Takara Lubner, Claudio Lucarelli, Cecilia Värendh Månsson
Oct 1, 2024 at - | Jon M. Huntsman Hall | Room 206
3730 Walnut St.
University of Pennsylvania

Cover for "Overcoming the Challenge of Youth Unemployment in South Africa"

South Africa has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world largely due to a system that fails to provide the basic skills and career guidance necessary for young people to enter the labor market successfully. Additionally, structural inequalities from apartheid-era policies still impact many young people today. Challenges like labor market rigidity, economic growth constraints, informal sector dominance, and youth population dynamics further complicate the situation.

The Wharton Coalition for Equity and Opportunity (CEO) is partnering with Afrika Tikkun to host a panel discussion on African entrepreneurship and sustainability. Afrika Tikkun has been tackling these challenges for 30 years through its “Cradle to Career” youth development programs, which support children from age 3 and guide them through education, skills training, and employment opportunities. This panel will kick off the Wharton CEO Global Speaker Series and align with Wharton CEO's mission to equip current and future leaders with the skills to build equitable organizations, create positive business outcomes, and grow wealth creation opportunities.

Join our panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Fareeda Griffith, Managing Director of Wharton CEO, to explore how various sectors can collaborate to tackle the complex challenges South Africa faces through:

  • Youth Empowerment and Education
  • Innovative Solutions for Community Development
  • Sustainable Impact through Partnerships
  • Focusing on Health and Well-being
  • Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship

Food and beverages will be provided.