Why skills mismatch and joblessness stem from failed education system
The persistent problem of skills mismatch in the labour market has not only become a significant contributor to the unemployment crisis, but is also a signifier of an ineffective education system unable to meet the economy’s needs. Experts predicted and research confirmed years ago that science, technology, engineering, mathematics and financial technology would be the backbone of all economies, yet SA failed to solve its education failures, ignoring its potential to provide employment for millions and unlock growth in the economy while disrupting unemployment trends. The unmet skills demands for labour in a country in which 7% of university graduates and 33% of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college graduates are unemployed illustrate the disjuncture between the education system and the world of work. The youth unemployment rate is more than 38%. Recruitment specialists are desperate for solutions as vacancies remain unfilled due to the scarcity of suitable cand...
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