Information literacy skills and the youth not in employment, education, or training in everyday life contexts: a case of Khuma and Kokosi townships in South Africa

Abstract

The ability to find and use information effectively and successfully must be considered a prerequisite in everyday life contexts. Without adequate information literacy (IL), members of society, particularly the young generation raised in the information era, will find it difficult to advance in life. The purpose of this study was to explore the IL skills of the NEET youth in Khuma (Stilfontein) and Kokosi (Fochville) townships in South Africa. A participatory action research approach was employed, utilising questionnaires and a focus group to collect data. The findings revealed that the NEET youth lacked basic IL skills. In addition, the participants highlighted a lack of devices needed to access information, as well as internet connectivity to search for educational and job opportunities, among other things. The government and local authorities need to enhance access to information by establishing well-equipped libraries and other information centres within communities. Additionally, further studies should explore the role of community leaders in promoting access to information and identifying the skills necessary to navigate various information sources.