Public Work Programmes and Youth Poverty Reduction in South African Towns: A Job Creation and Earnings Stability Study

Public work programmes have been implemented in South African towns to combat youth poverty through job creation. The analysis employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from focus group discussions. There was an increase in employment opportunities for youths by 25% within the first year of programme implementation. Public work programmes significantly improved earnings stability among participants, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing youth poverty. Continuation and expansion of these programmes are recommended to further address unemployment and income insecurity.