The latest IMD report depicts a grim picture of youth unemployment in SA; we currently have approximately 3.3 million youths without employment and South Africa is ranked a poor 62 out of 63 in our global competitiveness ranking. With this in mind, LFP’s #YouthMonthChallenge was created. Our team challenged corporates to do even more: whatever you are doing now, double it!
Whilst many countries prioritise their youth, our country chose to overlook them. Those who get to lead our legacy and are responsible for moving the country forward, will inherit our baggage and are left to fight some of the toughest battles yet.
What can aptly be described as a ‘system in crisis’ has left very little hope for South Africans. AJ Jordaan, Sales Manager for LFP Training says that a weak foundation from pre-primary onwards has left us with my unemployed and uneducated people, with very little hope of a successful future. “At LFP, we provide learnerships to the unemployed and disabled thanks to the assistance of corporates. A key requirement is that the learner should have a Grade 10 qualification. We see learners of all ages – some fall into the youth category whilst others are still fighting unemployment at an old age,”
“Many lack confidence and are truly victims of a flawed system. Basic education at a public level has certainly failed many South Africans and as a result, us as private sector participants are left to pick up the pieces” says AJ.
AJ explains that with all the odds stacked against the learners who come onto their courses, it might be surprising to hear that LFP Training’s pass rate well-surpasses the industry norm. “When you think about it, we receive unemployed, disabled and often very destitute learners”
“We believe that LFP’s pass rate signifies the benchmark for what our country could be. If we go the extra mile, employ quality educators and provide more opportunities in a growth conducive environment, our youths certainly will flourish. LFP Training’s formula once again proved itself in April when we hosted a graduation for more than 500 learners; a record-breaking ceremony” says AJ.
The formula takes all the wrongs of the system and rights them. “Beyond theory and winning methodology, we connect with our learners. Every single facilitator, moderator and employee at LFP Training is fair, compassionate, patient, stern when needed, knowledgeable and truly understands that more than just a learnership, this is actually an emotional journey for our learners too. We take the time to recognise and address weaknesses, ensure that our facilitators have a firm understanding of our course materials and can connect with the learners”
“We want to equip people for the workplace and ensure that they are hungry and able to take on opportunities. By giving people the tools to succeed, we have seen them do exactly this. Beyond circumstances, we know what it takes to create great leaders and we don’t let their pasts dictate their futures” AJ concludes.