Skills courses can boost career prospects

THE current South African job market is brutal – having become increasingly competitive and unpredictable in the face of a volatile global economy, uniquely local constraints and technological advancements. Jobseekers are struggling to get a foot in the door for the few available positions, and many believe themselves to have hit a dead end.

However, with a creative rethink and assessment of their options going forward, jobseekers can set out on a fresh path with new opportunities.

SKILLS EMPOWERMENT

In our current dynamic landscape, traditional qualifications alone may no longer suffice to secure stable and rewarding career opportunities. This is where skills courses are making a big difference – empowering individuals to upskill, cross-skill and reskill so that they can take advantage of available opportunities.

In contrast with lengthy degrees which require a substantial investment of time and money, skills courses are short learning programmes that focus on developing a specific skill or competency for a particular purpose.

Skills courses can be offered by various providers such as universities, colleges, companies or professional associations; and help students update their knowledge, acquire new skills, or prepare for a qualification or certification.

There are skills courses catering for almost all career fields – including, but not limited to business management, finance,

IT, marketing, health and safety, project management and software development. Because skills courses are comparatively short and focused, students are able to develop professionally and add to their skills arsenal more effectively and efficiently.

Skills courses have become indispensable in the current economic climate as a resource for job applicants to set themselves apart from their peers with similar backgrounds and qualifications.

They offer a bridge to the evolving job market, enhance employability, and promote adaptability and resilience.

By acquiring new skills, professionals can explore diverse opportunities and remain employable in multiple industries; thereby reducing their vulnerability to economic fluctuations.

ENHANCING EMPLOYABILITY

Employers are increasingly seeking candidates with specialised skills – rather than general degrees – that align with their organisational needs. Skills courses enhance employability and increase candidates’ chances of securing positions with higher earning potential.

INDUSTRY DEMANDS

Different industries have unique requirements, and skills courses meet those demands. From digital marketing and data analysis to coding and project management, skills courses ensure that professionals have the expertise to contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields, while also ensuring their skills stay relevant to industry needs.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Individuals can confidently launch and manage their own ventures by learning industryspecific skills, business management, marketing, and financial planning.

We expect to see a continued growth in individuals opting to boost their skills by way of shorter skills courses in coming years as the economy continues to bite and competition for limited opportunities increases.

Those opting to go this route should take care to ensure they study through a reputable institution, and that they select a programme or course that aligns with job opportunities in the marketplace as well as their vision for their future.