There are also significant differences in the education attained by young people in different provinces. Gauteng and the Western Cape have the highest proportions of young people who have undertaken additional education or training since leaving school as well as the lowest proportions of young people who have no formal education. 2.1.2 Employment Education and unemployment are inter-related. It would be a mistake, however, to assume that poor education is the only reason for the high levels of youth unemployment. Despite an increase in young people's ability to access education over the past ten years, youth unemployment has continued to rise.
Young women experience higher rates of unemployment than young men across all race groups.
Young women find it more difficult to access the labour market and face particular problems such as discrimination and harassment when searching for work. There is a particular need to address these issues when delivering programmes which prepare young women for entering the workforce. Studies have shown that unemployed young people are more depressed than those engaged in youth programmes or employment, and they are therefore particularly vulnerable. It is important to note the profound social and psychological effects unemployment has on young people and the long-term impact this will have on South Africa's overall development. It points to the need for programmes addressing issues of employment to do so in a comprehensive and integrated manner.