A systems thinking approach to a sustainable management model for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development’s Youth Academies.

Abstract

In South Africa, like in most developing countries, the provision of integrated youth development programmes is vitally important to provide the future workforce with the crucial and relevant skills for the modern economy. The youth development academies under the Department of Social Development in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, are an innovative approach by government to deal with the dearth of skills, and high unemployment rates among the youth. Through the examination of the youth academy vignettes, the study sought to examine whether the current management approaches were effective in supporting the objectives of the youth development academy conceptual framework and what theoretical framework underpinned the model for the youth development academies and the management thereof. The study followed a mixed method approach where both quantitative and qualitative methods of data generation were used. The Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) was applied to critically analyse the environmental dynamics that had an influence in the organizational complexity. Furthermore, the study used the Ralph Stacey Model and stakeholder theory to highlight and analyse complex areas of contestation between the different stakeholders. The study then proceeded to use a causal loop analysis to identify systems determinants for sustainability. The study found shortcomings and limitations with the current management model which is based on partnerships because of the complex relationships between stakeholders. The study also found that causal loop analysis provides an opportunity to identify explicit complex cause-and-effects relationships and high probability risks, which need to be anticipated and mitigated. It then recommends a systems approach for managing the academies in a complex dynamics of power relations, complexity and social norms. This study contributes to the knowledge domain of the management of youth development academies using a systems approach in a state and the not-for profit organization partnership model. It further enhances the deeper understanding of the complex challenges that exist in such a partnership model within a community development praxis. Keywords: Systems thinking, complexity theory, causal loops, Ralph Stacey Model, youth development academies