Life beyond a degree

South Africa's youth unemployment crisis is exacerbated by a growing disconnect between young people's preparedness for work and the skills the economy needs. This article explores how an over-reliance on university degrees has overshadowed diverse pathways to economic opportunity, deepening inequality in one of the world's most unequal countries. It highlights the urgent need for a broader post-school education and training system, including vocational training, to equip youth with practical skills and foster a more inclusive economy.