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The Citizen reports that 15 July was World Youth Skills Day, as declared by the UN General Assembly to celebrate the importance of equipping young people with skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
The day also aimed to address sustainability and development issues affecting young people around the world. Michelle Dobson, head of brand at Pnet, says the global information technology (IT) sector is grappling as demand for IT professionals grows. “The rapid pace of technological advancement means that the skills required are constantly evolving,” she pointed out. Dobson added that SA was experiencing a similar shortage of skilled IT professionals, so addressing this issue at the lowest level was vital for the country’s economic development and for its ability to compete in the global market. According to Dobson, more SA companies are now likely to employ a person with skills rather than someone with a qualification, but no skills. Such companies are most likely to be technology firms. The sector requires innovation and adaptability, therefore most technology companies opt for candidates who have relevant, up-to-date skills over those with traditional qualifications, Dobson notes. “Emphasising skills allows employers to tap into a larger pool of talent, including self-taught individuals, career-changers, and those from underrepresented groups who may not have followed traditional educational pathways, such as self-study, online courses, or practical experience,” she commented.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Tshehla Cornelius Koteli at The Citizen
Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page