62% of SRD Grant Applicants Under 35 Amid Job Crisis in South Africa

A staggering 62% of applicants for South Africa’s R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant are under the age of 35 years (young adulthood), highlighting the worsening youth unemployment crisis. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) confirmed this in its latest report, revealing just how heavily young people are relying on government support to survive in a broken job market.

62% of SRD Grant Applicants Under 35 Amid Job Crisis in South Africa

Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SASSA grant has transitioned from temporary relief to a financial lifeline for millions. For South Africans aged 15 to 34 years, who now face unemployment rates exceeding 45%, the SRD grant is often the only income in households where no one works.

This alarming shift reflects more than a temporary hardship, it signals a long-term crisis threatening the country’s most energetic and employable age group.

Youth Relying on SRD Grant as Economic Recession Deepens

The increase in youth SRD applications shows that more young people are turning to government support out of necessity. Economic experts warn this is not a sustainable model. While the R370 grant offers short-term stability, it does little to address the lack of jobs, digital skills, or pathways to income.

Labour market analyst Dr. Busi Mhlanga describes the trend as “deeply concerning,” saying, “South Africa’s youth need real economic participation, not just survival aid. Monthly assistance must be matched with jobs, skills training, and scalable programs.”

Unemployment Pushes Youth to the Brink as SRD Grant Becomes a Lifeline

Many recipients say the SRD grant is their only support system. In under-resourced areas, this small amount stretches to cover food, electricity, and school costs for entire households.

Sibongile, 29, from KwaZulu-Natal, holds a diploma but has been unemployed for 2 years. “This grant keeps me afloat,” she says. “It’s not enough, but it’s something. I apply for jobs every month, but nothing comes back.”

Pressure Builds on Government to Create Jobs, Not Just Grants

Youth organisations and economists are calling for urgent policy shifts. Proposals include expanding skills development centers, launching youth job platforms, and linking SRD beneficiaries to internship pipelines or public works initiatives.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has labeled youth unemployment as “South Africa’s biggest problem,” but critics say political will and real investment are still lacking.

What’s Next for the SRD Grant and Unemployed Youth in South Africa?

SASSA says it remains committed to assisting all eligible applicants and is working to improve application systems and SASSA status check. But even as the grant continues, experts agree that dependency will only grow if jobs are not created.

As elections approach, young people are no longer silent. They’re demanding solutions that restore their dignity and provide access to opportunity. Meanwhile Postbank glitches during payment days have forced over 2 million SASSA beneficiaries to turn to other banks in search of a more reliable payment solution.

Will SASSA SRD Relief Lead to Recovery, or Just More Waiting?

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) SRD grant data isn’t just statistics, it tells the story of a generation left out. With 62% of applicants under 35, South Africa stands at a crossroads. What the government does next could define whether this is a lost generation or one that finally gets a fair chance.