The socio-economic, health and gender impact of Covid-19 on youth (16-35 years old) beneficiaries of DSD programmes

Abstract

The current report is the first of three and focuses on youth???s experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic over the period April 2020 to July 2021. We specifically examine the following issues: 1. Health profile, including COVID-19 symptoms, sexual and reproductive health and access to services during the lockdown 2. Educational impact (students and school learners) 3. Economic impact (including food and water security) 4. Uptake and perceptions of social relief initiatives (grants, food vouchers and parcels)

Before presenting the findings, the literature on COVID-19 and youth in South Africa is presented, followed by a description of the research processes adopted in this study.