The role of handicraft micro-enterprises as a catalyst for youth employment

Abstract

There is a pressing need to equip South African's youth with the means to develop their entrepreneurial potential. In this context, there is the need for the government to create a support mechanism to help integrate young people into the job market, through the handicraft Entrepreneurship. The objective of this study is to examine job creation, income generation and poverty alleviation opportunities in developing the microenterprise-handcraft linkage, with special attention to vulnerable sectors of society, the youths.However, the handicraft sector is performing at a level far below its potential in South Africa. This research study into the reasons behind such weak performance, its developmental aspects, and different implication shall be suggested on the contribution of handicrafts in eradicating poverty and maintaining a sustainable livelihood for the youths. The paper shows key findings from a literature review and from semi-structured interviews with local producers, supporters, and buyers of handicraft products in the Western Cape Province. The methodology used for this research is an exploratory approach using a qualitative data collection method. Finally, the study provides a comprehensive strategy on how to enhance the South African handicraft sector to better meet its needs as a micro-enterprise to create a better living for the people.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage Embodied in Traditional Crafts in the Developing Countries. A Case Study of Pakistani Handicraft Industry

“…The cultural heritage embodied in crafts is valuable cultural asset for any nation, it indicates culture and traditions of a particular region. The craft production is very vital part of economies in several developing nations [4,5]. Also, the importance of craft tradition has been widely acknowledged in the literature for development of poor nations, thus it becomes necessary and justified to pay attention in terms of appropriate policy measures to protect and preserve the craft tradition [15,16].…”

“…Abisuga and Fillis [5] suggested that the handicraft education curriculum can be introduced in the formal education system in order to address the issue of preservation and sustainability of cultural heritage. Moreover, the school children, who quit their education at early stages, can be accommodated in craft education programs which can help to develop creativity, self-fulfillment and sense of belongings.…”

“…Access to credit facilities is one of assured path to empower artisans leading to income and employment generation, it has also been largely acknowledged in the literature [2]. For instance, Abisuga and Fillis [5] emphasized the need to provide microfinance to artisans as it is one of the best way to empower youth and generate employment and income opportunities. Similarly, Norasingh and Southammavong [52] highlighted that the micro/small handicraft firms do not have much financial resources to take part in the international trade shows and exhibitions to present their cultural heritage resulting in loss of competitiveness.…”

“…It also severely affects the access to raw materials as well as export/import of handicrafts. In line with this issue, Abisuga and Fillis [5] suggested that relevant government agencies must pay attention to provide basic infrastructure such as roads, water and electricity facilities to support handicraft business activities particularly in the rural area in order to help artisans to do business smoothly and open the doors for sustainable development of traditional heritage.…”

“…The handicraft sector plays a vital role in income and employment generation and has also been recognized worldwide as a tool for poverty reduction [1][2][3][4][5]. It is a means of preserving and promoting cultural and artistic traditions, such as various techniques and skills of traditional crafts are transmitted from generation to generation.…”