Government and Training Partners Call for More Pathways to Employment and Entrepreneurship
A growing partnership between the Services SETA, the City of Johannesburg (COJ), and the Phosaane Institute is highlighting how collaboration between government institutions and accredited skills development providers can help address one of South Africa’s biggest challenges—youth unemployment.
Speaking during a recent programme engagement, Martin Ngwako Lebea, Executive Head of Social Development at the City of Johannesburg, praised the joint initiative for creating meaningful opportunities for unemployed young people through skills development and economic participation.
“The partnership between the Services SETA, the City of Johannesburg and the Phosaane Institute demonstrates what can be achieved when government, skills development institutions and communities work together towards a common goal and objective,” said Martin Ngwako Lebea.
He further encouraged all stakeholders to continue expanding initiatives that provide practical pathways into employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods.
A Shared Commitment to Youth Development
South Africa continues to face significant youth unemployment, making skills development one of the country’s most important economic priorities. Collaborative programmes involving Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), municipalities, and accredited training providers have become increasingly important in equipping young people with workplace-ready skills.
The partnership demonstrates how coordinated investment in education, practical training, and community engagement can help young South Africans gain valuable experience while improving their long-term employability.
Rather than operating independently, the three organisations have combined their expertise and resources to ensure participants receive both accredited training and opportunities that prepare them for the labour market.
Skills Development Remains a National Priority
The Services SETA plays an important role in supporting skills development across South Africa’s services sector by funding learnerships, skills programmes, bursaries, and occupational qualifications.
Working alongside municipalities such as the City of Johannesburg enables these programmes to reach communities where unemployment levels remain high, particularly among young people entering the labour market for the first time.
Industry experts continue to highlight that successful partnerships between government, employers, and accredited training institutions are essential for building a more inclusive economy.
Creating Sustainable Economic Participation
According to Lebea, the success of partnerships should not be measured only by the number of learners trained but by the long-term economic opportunities created for graduates.
Expanding access to employment, entrepreneurship support, and workplace experience can help ensure that training translates into sustainable income and meaningful careers.
This approach aligns with South Africa’s broader skills development strategy, which seeks to improve workforce readiness while supporting inclusive economic growth.
SETA OPPORTUNITIES ON SETA PORTAL
Why Partnerships Matter
Skills programmes are most effective when they combine:
- Accredited education and occupational training
- Practical workplace experience
- Community participation
- Public-private collaboration
- Entrepreneurship development
- Employment placement support
When these elements work together, participants are more likely to transition successfully into employment or self-employment.
Looking Ahead
The City of Johannesburg has encouraged partners across both the public and private sectors to strengthen collaboration and expand opportunities available to young South Africans.
As demand for skilled workers continues to evolve, programmes that connect education with real workplace opportunities are expected to play an increasingly important role in reducing unemployment and supporting local economic development.
The continued cooperation between the Services SETA, the City of Johannesburg, and accredited training institutions illustrates how coordinated investment in people can contribute to stronger communities and a more resilient economy.
Sources and References
- Official remarks by Martin Ngwako Lebea, Executive Head of Social Development, City of Johannesburg.
- Services SETA public information on skills development initiatives.
- South African Skills Development Act and National Skills Development priorities.
Editorial Transparency
Publisher’s Note: This article is based on official statements made during a Services SETA partnership programme involving the City of Johannesburg and the Phosaane Institute. The content has been independently structured and expanded to provide additional background and context while preserving the accuracy of the original statement. No material facts have been altered.
Fact-Checking: Names, organisational roles, and quoted statements have been verified against the official programme information supplied by the organisers.
Last Updated: 26 June 2026
