Katlego Sekhu
In his latest newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasizes the need to attract critical skills to meet the growing demands of the economy as skill shortages persist in various sectors.
The 959 Breakfast team discussed Ramaphosa’s proposal and asked listeners whether it’s fair for the government to influence people’s choice of study to address skill shortages.
Sol Phenduka expressed that it was not unfair at all. “In South Africa, passing requires proficiency in languages. In China, passing mandates requires proficiency in Chinese and mathematics, contributing to their thriving economy.”
Touching on pursuing one’s passion, Mpho advocated for artisan jobs, highlighting the opportunities they offer. “There appears to be a shortage of skills in artisanal fields, which are often overlooked due to their perceived lack of glamour. Not everyone is cut out for academic pursuits, and it’s crucial to recognize and support other avenues of success. If a child’s strengths lie outside of academia, it’s important not to force them in that direction. There are viable career paths where they can excel without pursuing a traditional degree,” she explained.
Mfundo Mabalane shared a similar sentiment. “I believe the government should guide us towards artisanal work, as it is currently in demand. Many parents should reconsider the emphasis placed solely on obtaining a degree. Careers such as machine operation and plumbing offer promising opportunities,” she suggested.
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