Statements

Statement of Support: DWYPD Rising Suicide Rates

Project Potential RSA
In Response to the DWYPD Media Statement on Rising Suicide Rates Among South African Youth

Project Potential RSA stands in full support of the recent media statement issued by the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) on 7 December 2025, highlighting the urgent need to address the escalating rates of suicide among young people in South Africa.

The alarming statistics presented, including the national suicide rate of 23.5 per 100,000 people and reports that one in five learners has attempted suicide, reaffirm the severity of the crisis confronting our youth. As an organisation committed to youth empowerment, skills development, and holistic well-being, we recognise that mental health is a fundamental component of a young person’s ability to thrive.

We echo the DWYPD’s call for coordinated, society-wide action. Suicide is preventable, and safeguarding the mental well-being of young people requires collective responsibility across families, schools, communities, and institutions. Young people need environments where they feel seen, heard, valued, and supported, and where stigma does not silence their struggles.

Project Potential RSA fully supports the Department’s recommendations, including:

• Increased investment in psychosocial services within schools and communities.

• Expanded access to trained counselors, social workers, and youth workers.

• Strengthened early intervention systems to identify risks before crises emerge.

• Community-driven awareness campaigns aimed at dismantling stigma and building mental health literacy.

• Support for families and caregivers to respond with compassion and understanding.

As an organisation working closely with young people, we are deeply aware of the emotional burdens many carry, stemming from socio-economic hardships, trauma, bullying, exclusion, and mental health challenges. We are committed to integrating mental health support and education into our existing programmes, and to championing safe spaces where young people can access help without judgment or fear.

To every young person facing distress: you are not alone. Help is available, and reaching out is a courageous first step. We encourage youth, families, and communities to make use of vital resources such as the SADAG Suicide Crisis Line (0800 567 567 / SMS 31393).

Project Potential RSA remains steadfast in our mission to uplift and empower South Africa’s youth. Together, with government, civil society, and community partners, we can build a future where every young person has hope, opportunity, and the support they need to live and thrive.

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Mr. Caleb Gaffoor  

Project Potential RSA: Public Relations: Secretary 

communications@projectpotential.co.za