NATIONAL NEWS - The Ministry in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has raised alarm over recent reports of alleged job offers circulating on social media, targeting young South African women aged 18 to 22 for employment opportunities in Russia.

“Although we recognise that South Africa faces unacceptably high youth unemployment, especially among young women, this harsh reality must never be exploited through false job offers,” the Ministry said in a statement on Monday.

The Department confirmed that the advertised work opportunities advertised on social media for positions in Russia, are not facilitated or endorsed by government, noting that all legitimate international employment opportunities are organised through official diplomatic channels and formal bilateral agreements.

It urged young people to exercise extreme caution when engaging with unsolicited offers for international employment, particularly those distributed via social media and other online platforms.

Before pursuing international work or study opportunities, young people are urged to verify the authenticity of the job adverts through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and its missions abroad, relevant foreign embassies or missions within South Africa of the intended country of travel for the opportunity, the Department of Employment and Labour, the South African Police Service, or the Department of Higher Education and Training.

“The safety, dignity, and future of young South African women are of paramount importance, and we cannot allow desperation borne of high unemployment to be weaponised against our youth. 

"As a government, we continue to work tirelessly to address youth unemployment through national initiatives such as the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and various skills development programmes,” the department said.

However, the department warned that government alone cannot win the fight against unemployment, calling for all stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society, labour, academia, and communities, to join hands with the government in creating sustainable pathways for decent work for young people, especially young women.

To fully understand the nature of the employment opportunities in Russia and provide clarity to the public, the Ministry said it will engage stakeholders, including DIRCO, the Russian Embassy in South Africa, and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance (WBA).

“Let us remain united in protecting the dreams and dignity of South Africa’s young women, while redoubling our efforts to build an inclusive economy that provides meaningful opportunities at home,” the Ministry said. – SAnews.gov.za

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