The four social issues that could lead to social injustices in communities are:

1. Poverty
Poverty is one of the most pressing social issues in South Africa. When communities struggle to meet basic needs, access to education, healthcare, and jobs becomes limited. This results in systemic inequality and perpetuates social injustice. In 2023, around 55.5% of South Africans lived below the poverty line, showing how widespread the problem is.

2. Unemployment
High unemployment rates fuel social inequalities. With South Africa’s unemployment rate at 32.6% in 2023, large portions of the population are trapped in poverty. Unemployment leads to frustration and desperation, often resulting in crime and social unrest. This is not a mere inconvenience; it’s a deep wound that undermines economic mobility and justice in communities.

3. Gender Inequality
Gender-based violence (GBV) and discrimination against women and LGBTQ+ individuals are serious issues in South African society. For example, South Africa has one of the highest rates of femicide globally. This inequality undermines the rights of women, affecting their access to education, employment, and justice, leading to persistent social and economic injustice.

4. Educational Inequality
Education in South Africa remains deeply unequal, with a stark contrast between urban and rural schools. Historically disadvantaged communities continue to receive poor-quality education, which limits their ability to rise above poverty. Think about this: a student in a well-resourced urban school has five times better chances of completing matric compared to one in a rural school. Education gaps create lasting barriers to equality.