3 days ago
Jobs aren't coming so they created their own
At a time when youth unemployment continues to erode economic confidence, more than 30 young entrepreneurs have chosen a different path, creating businesses instead of waiting for jobs. Their achievements were celebrated on June 4 at a graduation ceremony hosted by the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) and the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), following the completion of two transformative, accredited qualifications in entrepreneurship and small business development.
As these young entrepreneurs return to their communities, they carry more than certificates. They carry the tools and vision to spark grassroots economic renewal.
The programmes, the Certificate in Entrepreneurial Development and the Certificate in Small Business Enrichment, are part of a strategic partnership between CHIETA and JBS at the University of Johannesburg, enabled by a R1 million discretionary grant from CHIETA. The funding supports sustainable entrepreneurship and leadership training aligned to national economic development goals. In her opening address, Professor Adri Drotskie, Acting Dean of JBS, emphasised the power of sector partnerships to create lasting impact:
'Our collaboration with CHIETA continues to build managerial capacity and entrepreneurial thinking. These graduates represent not only academic success but a growing movement of economic selfdetermination.'
Delivering the keynote, Princess Kgakane, CHIETA Executive Manager for Grants, Projects and Regions, acknowledged the deeper significance of the moment: 'You've chosen growth over defeat. At a time when our expanded unemployment rate has reached 43.1%, your journey shows that with the right support, people don't just survive. They thrive.'
CHIETA's investment forms part of a wider mission to drive inclusive skills development, particularly in the chemical sector and adjacent industries. The long-standing partnership with JBS has already yielded tangible results, empowering beneficiaries with practical business acumen, leadership confidence, and sector-relevant expertise.
