South Africa's persistent unemployment crisis remains a significant hurdle for the nation's workforce, with the latest statistics revealing a marginal decline in the unofficial unemployment rate to 42.4% in the first quarter of 2023.
Thus the importance of education in the labour market becomes increasingly apparent. By empowering our youth, and promoting future-proof career choices, we can improve the path for job-seekers.
Vital role of education
Education is a pivotal factor in the workplace, offering greater chances of employment to individuals with higher levels of education. Statistics from South Africa's Q1 2023 report highlight the significant advantage enjoyed by those with tertiary education.
They are far more likely to secure workplace opportunities. Of the 7.9 million unemployed persons (first quarter of 2023), as many as 48.3% did not have matric, while 40.7% did. With a post matric education, Stats SA reports that almost 8% of the unemployed people had other tertiary qualifications while only 2.7% of the non-deployed persons were graduates.
This means that those with tertiary education have a higher chance of moving from unemployment to work. It also means that skills (especially those acquired at tertiary level) play a key role when it comes to securing employment. "Enhancing access to quality education and promoting lifelong learning are crucial steps in reducing unemployment rates and nurturing a skilled and adaptable workforce,” says Natalie Rabson, career counsellor at Boston City Campus.
Choosing a career path with job prospects
It is crucial for individuals to make informed decisions regarding their career paths. Encouraging students and job seekers to pursue professions aligned with future demand can enhance their employability and contribute to economic growth.
By identifying emerging sectors and promoting education and training in these areas, we can equip graduates with an advantage over other jobseekers.“Boston’s Graduate Support Programme enjoys an excellent relationship with industry, enabling us to keep our finger on the pulse of in-demand skills,” says Natalie.
Future-proof job opportunities
In an era of rapid technological advancements, it is essential to identify and promote careers that will remain in demand. This includes fields such as information technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and sustainable agriculture.
By providing qualifications in these sectors, tertiary institutions like Boston can bridge the skills gap and promote viable employment opportunities.
Graduates need support
Boston graduates are empowered through the Graduate Support Services programme - a free online ‘Work Readiness’ Course. It includes, amongst other topics: how to prepare a professional Curriculum Vitae (CV), how to prepare a winning cover letter, how to effectively market yourself, job-hunting and interview tips and more.
Graduates who successfully complete the Boston Work Readiness Course are then added to the Boston Graduate Support Services Database where relevant graduates may be linked with organisations seeking graduates for
potential internship or employment.
Guiding our graduates and students
Supporting graduates is vital in navigating the complex world of work.
We have for example a module called WIL – Work Integrated Learning – which provides practical experience, ensuring students are workplace ready.
Through WIL we combine academics with a practical, relevant environment where theory can be
applied.
“Work-integrated learning (WIL) is an essential component of qualifications. Boston students are encouraged to get work experience during their degree. Companies host a student, enabling them to apply the skills learnt at Boston,” she says.
“With WIL, an opportunity is created to harness key skills through experiential learning”.
Work ready graduates
The practical part of certain programmes is overseen by Jeannette Campbell who manages the work-integrated learning on a fulltime basis, liaising between the host company and the student. In this capacity, Jeannette further solidifies corporate relations, underpinning Boston’s pivotal role in supplying top graduates in various industries. By connecting youth with industry professionals and exposing them to diverse opportunities, we aim to inspire a generation of ambitious, skilled, and well-prepared individuals,” concludes Natalie.
