Minister of Finance to open 2026 Public Economics Conference

The 2026 Public Economics Conference (PEC) will officially open on 7 July with a pre-recorded address by the Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwana, setting the stage for three days of discussion on one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges – youth unemployment.

Held under the theme “Counting the Crisis: Data, Evidence and Solutions for Youth Unemployment in South Africa,” the conference will bring together policymakers, researchers, economists and practitioners to explore how better data, stronger evidence and more effective implementation can help connect young people to meaningful economic opportunities.

Following the Minister’s opening message, National Treasury Director-General Dr Duncan Pieterse and South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu will participate in a high-level discussion on the role of public finance and policy in addressing the youth unemployment crisis. The opening session will conclude with a keynote address by leading economist Dr Haroon Bhorat.

The discussions come at a critical time. Statistics South Africa’s first quarter 2026 labour market data shows that the national unemployment rate stands at 32.7%, while unemployment among 15–24-year-olds is 60.9% and 40.6% among those aged 25–34. More than four in ten young people aged 15–34 are currently not in employment, education or training.

Over three days, the conference will examine how improving the way South Africa measures, understands and responds to youth unemployment can help shape more effective policies and better outcomes for young people.

Read more about the programme and register to attend the conference here.