Abstract:
The rising number of unemployed graduates in South Africa is a significant socio-economic challenge, with
traditional job markets failing to absorb the growing educated workforce. This paper explores
entrepreneurship as a viable solution for unemployed graduates, examining its potential to create
sustainable employment opportunities and drive economic growth. The study delves into the current state
of unemployed graduate in South Africa, identify key challenges for graduate contemplating
entrepreneurship initiatives, the benefit of entrepreneurship for unemployed graduate. It further
investigates the skills and competencies required for successful entrepreneurship as well as the support
mechanism for South African graduates in entrepreneurship. To achieve the objective of this paper, the
author made use of existing literature, journals and books, government documents and internet sources.
Through a comprehensive review of literature, the paper highlights successful entrepreneurial initiatives
and support mechanisms in1 South Africa. The findings suggest that with appropriate training,
mentorship, and access to funding, entrepreneurship can be a compelling alternative for unemployed
graduates, fostering innovation and economic resilience. Furthermore, the paper concludes by
recommending the strategic interventions to promote entrepreneurial activities among South African
graduates, ultimately contributing to a reduction in unemployment rates and a more dynamic economy.
The researcher suggests further research on entrepreneurship and unemployed graduates, which could offer
valuable insights to policymakers, educators, and financial institutions, thereby creating a more supportive
environment for unemployed graduates to thrive.
