Building a Better Future
The Importance of Skills Development and Industry Partnerships
The artisanal sector is facing a crisis in South Africa. An aging workforce, a decline in learners entering artisanal training programs, and a lack of experience among newly qualified artisans are just a few of the challenges facing this critical sector.
A Global Perspective
South Africa is not alone in facing these challenges. Many countries around the world are experiencing similar issues in their artisanal sectors. However, some countries are shifting the narrative and achieving success through innovative approaches to skills development and industry partnerships.
Germany’s Dual Training System
Germany’s dual training system is a great example of how skills development and industry partnerships can come together to drive economic growth. The system combines theoretical learning with practical training, allowing learners to gain hands-on experience in their chosen trade.
Germany’s dual training system has been highly successful, with over 50% of the workforce having completed an apprenticeship. This has contributed to Germany’s strong economy and low unemployment rate.
Singapore’s Professional Conversion Programmes
Singapore’s Professional Conversion Programmes (PCPs) are another example of how skills development and industry partnerships can drive economic growth. The PCPs provide training and development opportunities for workers to transition into new roles and industries.
Singapore’s PCPs have been highly successful, with over 10,000 workers having benefited from the program since its inception. This has contributed to Singapore’s strong economy and highly skilled workforce.
A South African Solution
So, what can South Africa learn from these international examples? Here are a few key takeaways:
- Industry partnerships are key: Industry partnerships are critical to providing learners with practical training and experience.
- Skills development must be relevant: Skills development programs must be relevant to the needs of industry and the economy.
- Government support is essential: Government support is essential to providing funding and resources for skills development programs.
By adopting a similar approach to skills development and industry partnerships, South Africa can build a stronger, more sustainable artisanal sector. This will require a collaborative effort from government, industry, and training providers.
A Call to Action
It’s time for South Africa to take action and develop a comprehensive skills development strategy that addresses the needs of the artisanal sector. This requires a commitment from government, industry, and training providers to work together to provide relevant skills development programs and industry partnerships.
Let’s work together to build a brighter future for South Africa’s artisans and the economy as a whole.
Sources:
- German Federal Ministry of Education and Research
- Singapore Government Agency for Science, Technology and Research
- South African Department of Higher Education and Training
