VOCATIONAL TRAINING HAS HUGE ADVANTAGES

WITH the government’s renewed commitment to stability and pledge to bolster higher education, industry leaders are weighing in with an important message.

Universities remain under siege, with unemployment still at a high, but a solution to some of our gravest concerns is within reach – even as many avenues have already been explored or, at least, considered.

New entrants to the workplace, including recent matriculants and university hopefuls, must be made aware of the enormous advantages of vocational training.

A worldwide effort is under way to draw attention to this area of education, which has somehow taken a back seat to formal degrees even though it has so much to offer young South Africans looking into tertiary education opportunities.

Growing industries like engineering are looking to employ individuals certified in a range of expertise, from welding and tube fitting to electrical and mechanical.

The demand exists in the mining, petrochemical and iron and steel sectors, to name but a few.

That market need is reflected in reports indicating local industry alone requires about 30 000 qualified artisans a year to enter the market, but vocational training currently averages 18 000.

Key considerations are a vocational trainee’s ability to learn while they work, thanks to a plethora of apprenticeship roles available, an expectation of almost guaranteed permanent employment upon qualifying, as well as an immediate earning potential average of between R20 000 and R25 000 – a compensation level almost unheard of among entry-level degree holders entering a saturated corporate environment.

Universities have their undeniable merits to many South Africans, providing theoretical knowledge within specific academic and professional areas, resulting in obtaining a degree, as opposed to the practical skills gained through artisan training.

However, the many challenges include a lengthy time investment, the current uncertainty and unrest brought on by conflict and dissatisfaction between activist groups and authorities, and the exercise is often accompanied by significant student loan debt.

While economic and employment statistics may look grim, investment in vocational training development provides invaluable prospects for unemployed South Africans, empowering individuals with invaluably globally demanded skill sets. It also presents local industries with numerous opportunities which benefit business and boost profitability.

Skills development and the creation of jobs directly increase confidence in South Africa’s fiscal stability and the attraction of investors in our industries – which all business sectors rely on for sustaining a viable marketplace for profitability.

This makes it the business of businesses to help themselves by helping their communities.

Aside from the tax and business levy benefits for businesses, there is a definite advantage in the ability to train individuals for specific functions that are required within an organisation.

Investing in these areas not only empowers individuals within the workforce but also gives the companies access to exactly the skills they require relatively easily and efficiently, as the knowledge and information required for qualifying in these areas already exists within the companies.

Supporting training and education initiatives can also make local businesses more attractive to investors and potential partners, who are increasingly prioritising socially conscious practices when seeking potential collaborators.

Van Heerden is managing director of the Rand Group, which focuses on quality standards and innovation in engineering.