Economic Development

Economic growth is projected to continue to be weak in the years ahead in the South African economy. Unemployment and inequality will remain high, reflecting large skill gaps and low education quality. Inflation has been above target, due to the rand depreciation and rising food prices, but is easing (OECD). OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría said in a press release, “Ensuring a better future for all South Africans will require increased access to higher education, a stronger and fairer labor market, deeper participation in regional markets and a regulatory framework that fosters entrepreneurship and allows small businesses to thrive.

Life Connection Ministries continues to partner with the local Department of Education to provide secondary education opportunities to help combat the sky rocketing unemployment among young adults in the rural communities. Technical Vocation and Education and Training (TVET) Colleges, what were previously called FET, provide post high school education for those who cannot afford to attend a traditional university. It is a great opportunity for many young adults who were not able to finish high school that can take course to receive GED certificate to continue their education at a University.

Further Education and Training (FET) strives to achieve three goals: making graduates employable; creating a diverse workforce; and meeting the needs of the country’s economy (The Skills Portal, SA).