What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to understand the socio-economic, health, and gender effects of COVID-19 on youth beneficiaries of DSD programs in South Africa.

May 24, 2026Open Access

The socio-economic, health and gender impact of Covid-19 on youth (16-35 years old) beneficiaries of DSD programmes

Key Points

The aim is to understand the socio-economic, health, and gender effects of COVID-19 on youth beneficiaries of DSD programs in South Africa.
Data collected on youth health profiles, educational challenges, and economic conditions during COVID-19 lockdown.
Analysis of youth perceptions and uptake of social relief initiatives.
Period of study covered April 2020 to July 2021.
Increased reports of COVID-19 symptoms and access challenges to health services.
Educational disruptions affected students significantly, with decreased learning outcomes.
Economic hardships noted, particularly in food and water security; youth showed varying uptake of relief initiatives.

Abstract

The current report is the first of three and focuses on youth��s experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic over the period April 2020 to July 2021. We specifically examine the following issues: 1. Health profile, including COVID-19 symptoms, sexual and reproductive health and access to services during the lockdown 2. Educational impact (students and school learners) 3. Economic impact (including food and water security) 4. Uptake and perceptions of social relief initiatives (grants, food vouchers and parcels) Before presenting the findings, the literature on COVID-19 and youth in South Africa is presented, followed by a description of the research processes adopted in this study.

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