HOD: Commerce Department & Grade Head – and Best Teacher Ever!

Florance Vermeulen is a Boston City Campus Somerset West Graduate! We requested to interview this successful grad, and being the consummate educator that he is, he sent us a word perfect interview! So , in his own words – meet Florance, Boston BCom Grad and award winning teacher!!

“I am a consummate teacher with a passion and vibrant gift to allow learners to grow in their learning experiences and competencies. During these past 5 years in teaching, my approach is to focus, inside and outside the classroom, on the learner whole, using education and my subject as the basis for growing learners into holistic responsible people with a meaningful place in their communities as explained below. 
 
My professional development and interest in teaching and learning stem from my involvement and participation in projects in communities outside the classroom. Since 2015, I volunteered to be the president of an internationally funded holistic educational initiative programme called, Give a Child a Future USA – Cape Scholars Foundation, for scholars in the Cape Winelands district. I developed a programe that aims to bolster better overall education by implementing mentorship and an academic program focusing on an elite group of learners from the public schools in Stellenbosch.  The selection is based on assessments conducted by me and other qualified educators. The mission, therefore, is to create opportunities for the learners, from grades 10 -12 to attain skills that will facilitate personal, social, educational, and economic development. I strongly believe that no learner should and must be left behind due to a lack of resources, support, and guidance.  The program consists of three separate but integrated components of learning and teaching. Firstly, it provides professional tutoring in Mathematics and English, conducted by qualified educators and specialists. Furthermore, the learners have access to career guidance counseling, psychometric assessments, and work readiness workshops performed by qualified individuals. Finally, we provide four-weekend mentorship camps; one per term, over a period of three years which contributes to identifying their strengths, developmental areas, interests, skills and dreams, and aspirations as future leaders. Part of measuring the success or impact of this program is evident in those who have gone on to furthering their education and revert to share their experience of the program with the new cohort.”

So Florance, where does all the music come from?

“ I see Art as my form of liberator, my inspiration and passion that empowers me to motivate my learners to deal with difficult circumstances. I give expression especially through dance to enable and empower disadvantaged learners with confidence, self-expression, and discipline. I recognise creativity as somewhat second nature to children in that they can develop fundamental critical thinking and problem-solving skills that they can incorporate into all other learning areas of education and life. I implement innovative alternatives to teaching and learning in the classroom- those that keep bringing material to life for my learners. This artistic approach creates a special connection between me as an educator and all the learners beyond the classroom. My personal history drives part of my teaching philosophy, that everybody given the right motivation can become a positive and powerful change in education

 
I am a living example of Albert Einstein’s philosophy, “I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn”. This, therefore, builds on my passion, patience, and nurturing nature outside of the classroom too. I have always approached the art forms in a very holistic manner to enable a behavioral change model in teaching and learning. Moving away from the traditional form of teaching and learning, generating a learner-centered approach. Keep in mind that learners always have challenges understanding content and applying it which generates a barrier to learning within a particular subject. I, therefore, use three elements within my teaching and learning approaches namely, music, movements, and technology.”

Why music?
“The music and movement I use have the ability to develop fundamental creative cognitive skills that learners can incorporate in a subject that is content-rich. It also becomes a behavioural module for both personal and learning abilities. It is fun and upbeat which generates teacher and learner engagement and improves their concentration when dealing with a particular subject. Learners have the ability to participate and gain cooperative teaching and learning approaches, and it also allows me as a teacher to develop trusting relationships with the content and convinces the learner that within learning we can have fun with a beat. Knowing that I am working with learners who are the generation Z and usually influenced by music itself; hip hop/ afro-beats is one of the genres that most learners gravitate toward or connect with. I use it to bridge the gap between a content-rich subject and barriers to learning. Learners are always amazed, connected, and join in at the drop of the first beat”.  

Boston has always used technology based learning methodologies, we see that you are also in favour of this form of learning?


“Knowing that technology is an integrated tool for teaching and learning, I utilize the digital hub and resources at our school twice a week. I use the space and resources to introduce technology to them in a fun and exciting way, they are able to use technology, and find, and critically evaluate information.  They are also equipped with basic Microsoft Word and PowerPoint presentation skills. This allows my learners to navigate confidently and acquire skills that are needed for the 4th industrial revolution (4IR) slowly but surely. 

In light of the above, it allows me to become very innovative and holistic and to think outside the box within my teaching and learning methodologies and pedagogical approaches. It empowers me to learn from learners and with them, fostering subjective teaching and learning culture. It constantly allows me to rediscover my passion for teaching and learning and simultaneously become resilient to seize the change within the challenges of barriers to learning. Learners become more enthusiastic about the subject. It instills a yearning for having fun whilst learning and challenges their cognitive skills, bridging the gap of barriers to learning. They became eager to acquire the necessary knowledge which allows them to actively participate and apply their knowledge to the content.  Evidently, it does not only show a marked difference in learner academic results but also behavioural challenges have tremendously decreased. They generated positive vibrations, influencing their behaviour and cognitive skills to a positive and enjoyable outcome. 
 
In conclusion, I am elated as to how I can inspire and instill values, dreams, and aspirations in the leaders of tomorrow. I am moved by the endless possibilities I can provide for my learners by exploring the potential each and every one of them possess. The sky is not the limit, and I am surely moving universes with everything I can achieve with the young fruitful individuals of South Africa”. 

Florance’s qualifications:

Formal training: 

Advanced Diploma in Professional Acting for Camera: City Varsity (Cape Town)

BCom in Management Marketing: Boston City Campus (Somerset West)

PGCE: STADIO HigherEducation

Excellent Assistance from Amanda

We love feedback from our students , especially feedback as glowing as this! Well done #TeamBoston #BCCBellville and thank you @TiaanSmit!!

Tiaan Smit

Good day Ms. Monk,  Hope you are well.

 I would just like to take the time to recognize the efforts and time Amanda has spent with me over the past year, as my student advisor she has been here every step of the way. She has assisted me with last-minute requests, and changes of exam venues and always responds to my emails in a timely and polite manner.   I started with Boston as part of the Amazon Career Choice program and from next year will be doing my BCom Law privately she has been so helpful during the process of changing qualifications, she is assisting with applying for credits and answering all my lists of questions and trust me there was a lot.

As someone that has done various short courses through other institutions and a partial law degree with another instution, I have never received this level of support and it played a deciding factor in why I chose to stay with Boston during this time. Amanda is amazing at her work, never talks down or answers with sarcasm and I always get responses without chasing. She is truly a major asset to your company and I believe all your advisors should be of her calibre. I hope she gets a big increase and a nice xmas bonus cause she deserves it if nothing else to at least be recognized! I know students are quick to complain but when the job is done well I must recognize that too.

Amanda is everything one wants in a student advisor and more. I highly appreciate it and just wanted to say thank you to her and your institution for all the support the past year and I look forward to the journey ahead.

Have a great day further and a blessed festive season.  Kind regards,

Tiaan

Feedback on Gradstar Gala Awards Dinner

The Gradstar Gala Awards Dinner was held at the Indaba Hotel, and it turned out to be a very swish affair! Gradstar flew all 100 finalists to Joburg and paid for their accommodation.

They were given over the period of four days, workshops, coaching and mentoring from the sponsoring employers. So what did the Boston students have to say?

Gabisile from Soweto told us that this has been a life-changing experience and she can’t wait to get back to campus and share what she has learnt

Nthabiseng from Germiston said the same,  and she is actually going to be a Gradstar ambassador going forward!

So while they were not selected for the top 10, getting into the top 100 out of 8000 was an enormous achievement!

Our two finalists were surprised and thrilled that a Boston director, senior manager and I were there to share their success – it meant a lot to them.

I could see why they got to the top 100 – very articulate, engaging and dynamic young ladies.

(We would like to acknowledge the selection in the top 100 of Jennisha from Umhlanga, even though she couldn’t come to Joburg due to a family emergency.)

Attendees heard an inspiring address by Hennie Heymans, the CEO of DHL Express, the lead sponsor of Gradstar.

Eric Albertini, COO of Future Fit Academy, head of the judging panel, explained the criteria they used throughout this whole process of assessment, to select future leaders who can ‘disrupt’, and not only survive but thrive in the ever-changing world and workplace – it’s mostly about ‘being’ (this will sound familiar to some of you!)

The audience enjoyed entertainment by Simmy, then all 100 finalists were called up and given a certificate before the top 10 were announced.

And then we left – but the youngsters partied on! Although Gabisile told us they had a workshop starting at 07:00 the next day ….

How to create a winning formula in job searching

How to create a winning formula in job searching

Whether you are just starting out in your job search, or looking to upgrade your current position, applying effective strategies can help make your search easier.

Wondering just where to start? Branch Manager of Boston City Campus, Maponya Mall, Merriam Koqo‑Hlengane​ provides her top tips on conducting an effective job search.

Setting time aside

Create momentum by allocating a specific amount of time for research, setting up appointments and following up on applications.

“Prepare the night before, setting up your list, so that you create an organised infrastructure allowing you to start right away,” says Koqo‑Hlengane.

Mindset

Anticipate that there may be some challenging times, when you may experience frustration because things aren’t moving as quickly as you would like.  See this time as a process.  Some days may be relatively quiet.  Be gentle with yourself, knowing that ups and downs are a natural part of job searching.

Networking

Think of people who are already in your network and who would be able to make any recommendations where you can apply. Former colleagues, managers or people from graduate school should all have some ideas. (Consult with the Boston Graduate Support Services). Try LinkedIn and see who you can contact digitally.

“LinkedIn is also an excellent place to find jobs in your particular field. A LinkedIn profile can serve as a good advertisement of your competencies and experience to prospective employers and HR managers,” says Koqo‑Hlengane​.

Your online footprint

It is common practice for future employees to research your online profile in order to find out more about you.  The flip side of the coin is true as well – ensure your online social media profiles would be acceptable to a potential employer.

The Covering letter

Once you find a job or company where you want to apply, create a covering letter, highlighting your key qualities and experience in relation to the particular job specifications.

Where to look

Google is your friend when it comes to your job search.  Keywords such as your industry + the position you are looking for will bring up specific sites dealing with your particular field and offering relevant positions.

“Searching online helps you to get to know the job market and what is being offered out there,” says Koqo‑Hlengane.  “It can also help you to see if you need to brush up on any skills. You may need to register for a short course or qualification to increase your eligibility in finding your ideal position.”

What are you offering?

Write down your skills: soft skills such as having a strong work ethic, being a team player, solution orientated, communication and adaptability and love of learning.  Note your strengths – professional competencies in which you excel and which can make you an ideal candidate.

Continuous learning

Whether you are just starting out or if you are looking to take the next step in your career, it is important to sustain your relevancy in your industry through continuous learning.  There are many short courses or even additional degrees or post-graduate diplomas to such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Management which can be studied part-time and which can set you on a career path of success.

Prepare for your interview

Prepare mentally for your interview by going over the possible questions and seeing yourself answering them.  You can even do a mock interview with a colleague or friend, helping you to be more prepared and more relaxed in the actual interview situation.

Take action

You have to know that you are going to get Yes’s and No’s.  Prepare yourself –you need to persevere. 

 “Make this into a learning experience,” says Koqo‑Hlengane. Always try to get feedback if things don’t work out – it helps you grow professionally and personally.

Keep on.  Face the challenges.  Be flexible. If a strategy isn’t working, then maybe you need to adjust it.  Eventually you are going to find your match.  “You’ve got this!” Concludes the Boston Branch Manager.

The career for now and the future

An interesting point of view from model and graduate  – Andries Marakalala!

Andries MarakalalaAndries Marakalala is an IT technician at Boston City Campus, he is part of the head office troubleshooting team! We caught up with him to find out what makes him tick, and why he chose IT as a profession. “I’ve always been truly interested in how technology works, especially how quickly it is developing, which is why I decided to do ICT. Plus, I was well advised by my mentor while I was still in college, and ICT appeared to have high job satisfaction and excellent long-term possibilities for professional progression. I therefore believed that this career suited both my personal interests and professional objectives”, says Andries.

He started off with formal training in IT, including: Technical Workshops (Basics troubleshooting)

I.T Networking Workshops (Installing cables. Configuring Switches) which he studies at Boston.  On day to day basis you will find him putting these skills into practice as he finds himself, “Responsible for installing, maintaining, and fixing hardware and software. support via remote access or site visits as necessary”. So you can see that ICT is not really a desk job, especially not in a nationally based organisation.

Aside from being on the go and with people, Andries loves “Sharing my knowledge and abilities with those in need gives me a wonderful sense of satisfaction, there is always something new to explore and something new to learn”.  And what does he enjoy the least in his job? “There are times when the job can be very repetitive “.

On an average day he is kept on the go with these tasks:

  • Responding to emails
  • Resolving tickets
  • Answering calls

So what does he believe are the most important traits to have to be successful in this job?

  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Pay attention to detail
  • Good communication skills

In trying to describe his job in one sentence , Andries says, “Setting up workstations with computers and required peripherals, ensuring the operation of computer hardware

installing and setting up the right software and functionalities in accordance with the requirements.” That’s quite a job description, and shows the tenacity ad perseverance you will need in ICT fro problem solving and continued growth and learning. According to Andries , this is very much a career where you nee both formal training as well as good practical experience. “I recommend the Boston qualifications of : Diploma in Network Systems , Networking Technician and Security Analyst”.

Personality-wise, Andries feels that you need to :

  • Be able to adapt to a changing work environment
  • Having good communication skills
  • Ability to work with your hands for repairs and installations.

The nature of people needing their ICT up and running NOW has created on the job challenges for Andries. “ Working under pressure, particularly when a deadline is involved” is a challenge for him.

Andries has advice for grade 11 and grade 12 learners. “Always do your research first. A career in information technology only makes sense if you are interested by computers. Every day will be an opportunity for interesting activities, and you might be amazed by the ways in which technology is used in various fields.” And you have to be prepared for lifelong learning. “Considering how 4IR is expanding, it goes without saying that you must stay current with technology and continue to learn new things.”

Andries ends with a recommendation for studies at Boston. “My IT career began at Boston Braamfontein, where I had the best experience. I then had to relocate to Boston Orange Grove, where I had to meet a lot of people and make friends – some of whom are still close friends of mine. Orange Grove extended a very good welcome to me, showing me a lot of care and love from the staff. I had to develop my independence and my capacity for self-reliance. I would suggest both branches to anyone interested in studying at Boston City Campus. Trust me, they will make you feel at home, and their friendliness is simply outstanding!”

Are You Interested In Cloud Computing?

As we progress at a rapid pace into the fourth industrial revolution, it has become increasingly critical to understand how to make use of the vast computer resources available on the Cloud to adapt to changing business needs.

The days of creating and servicing internal Information Technology infrastructures are rapidly fading in the wake of Virtual Computer infrastructures to make IT environments more flexible, scalable and affordable.

What is Cloud Computing? “The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than a local server or a personal computer.”

This course on Virtual Computing will equip you with not only the knowledge to understand the most fundamental Cloud computing concepts, but also provide a physical practical exposure to configure a variety of Virtual Computing technologies such as Oracle VirtualBox, VMware Workstation, Microsoft Hyper-V and more. As a cloud computing consultant you can offer your services to a company, with the unique selling point that “a high-performing private cloud can help cut up to 60% of  operational expenses”.

Boston prepares people, whether new to the workplace or employed in an industry, to offer services in Cloud Computing and its configuration, set-up and networking, to any large or small to medium enterprise.

Course Layout:

  • Introduction to Virtual Computing
  • Working with Oracle VM VirtualBox 5
  • Working with VMware Workstation 12 Pro
  • Data Centre Virtualization and Cloud Computing
  • Working with Microsoft Hyper-V
  • Working with Virtual Machine Manager
  • Working with VMware vSphere
  • Implementing a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
  • Introduction to Cloud Computing

The online structure of this course provides guided access to live server environments for configuring Virtual Computing platforms from anywhere. No dedicated hardware or software required!

Use the knowledge and skills gained in this course to effectively function as a:

  • Cloud Solutions Technician
  • Cloud Technology Consultant
  • Data Centre Support Technician
  • Virtual Systems Administrator

Duration: The course can be completed in 70 Hours or less over a time period of one year flexible self-paced learning. Students can attend online as either full time or part time learners.

Gradstar Nthabiseng Hlabahlaba

“What an honour and privilege it is to be selected as part of the 2022 DHL GradStar Top 100 Awards! I am truly humbled to be recognised as one of the most employable students out of thousands of applicants across South Africa. I believe that this speaks volumes to the incredible foundation that has been laid by Boston City Campus in preparing me for the world of work. This recognition from GradStar upholds the notion that hard work and determination truly do pay off.

 

My passion for leadership and being a change agent for South Africa and the world at large has been further ignited by my GradStar journey. Not only have I realised my capabilities, but I have been provided with the opportunity to enhance my skills while building networks that could catapult my career to new heights. The idea of connecting top students with top employers, giving individuals an opportunity to be headhunted, is one that truly excites me. I look forward to the life-changing opportunities that will be brought about by being a GradStar Top 100!

 

I would like to express my utmost gratitude to my campus and the entire Boston City Campus team who have played a vital role in my academic journey. Your guidance and continuous support are appreciated and have truly kept me going.

 

To my fellow students, I greatly encourage you to continue the pursuit of education as it is through study and hard work that one can realise and reach their full potential. Bear in mind that what matters most is how you actually utilise the education and knowledge that you receive and gain over the years. I further urge you to adopt the idea of showing up. Show up in your education and show up for yourself. Someone is always watching, so always strive to put your best foot forward in all that you do. The journey of life may not always be easy, on some days you might even be on the brink of giving up, but keep going and always remember why you started. Your hard work may not necessarily yield results immediately, but remember that nothing worth having ever comes easy. The world is your oyster!” – Nthabiseng Hlabahlaba

 

DHL GradStar Awards 2022

Boston City Campus Students gain a place in the country’s Top 100 most employable students list!

*Represented students announced at end of press release

After receiving thousands of entries from students all over the country, the Top 100 finalists for the 2022 DHL GradStar Awards have been announced. 

Now in its 7th year the GradStar Awards recognise the most employable full-time students in the country and are the only programme of its kind where thousands of students enter in order to be recognised by the top employers in the land. 

Headlined by sponsor DHL, and also supported by top employers Epiroc, Fasken, Absa, FutureFit Academy, and Golden Key Honours Society, the Awards are taken seriously by employers. Over the past 2 years, now more than ever, students have recognised their need to be noticed by employers in order to secure employment for the future. 

Laura Barker – founder of the GradStar Awards and CEO of BlackBark Productions observed: “During this time of COVID, employers need to stay relevant and visible to the workforce of the future, and through the GradStar Programme we have found a way to bridge the gap between the university and the world of work. We are happy to be back to a live event and wish all of the Top 100 all the best for the remainder of the competition.”

Dr Eric Albertini, founder of 3C Leadership has been instrumental in developing the judging framework for the GradStar Awards, and speaking during a live webinar to announce the Top 100 observed that he had found the calibre of entries to be extremely high and the results reflect all the qualities and attributes of a successful future employee. 

Paul Clegg from DHL, who have demonstrated their commitment to supporting talent through this programme for 5 years comment “We are thrilled to be associated with the GradStar program as we believe there is no better investment to make than in the future leaders of the great country of ours and it is without question that the top 100 GradStar selected students fit into that category.”

The Top 100 Finalists will engage in a full day of workshops with the Sponsor Employers on 1st of December, after which a “10 of the Finest” will be selected by the sponsors and announced at a live Gala dinner on the evening of the 1st of December, 2022.

 

A big thank you to the GradStar App, its developers and our amazing team, all of whom helped to make all this possible. Students – please remember to download the GradStar App, in order to network with other students and be matched with employers looking for your skill set. Free from all app stores. 

Please see the list below for the DHL GRADSTAR TOP 100 from Boston City Campus:

Name: Institution: Qualification:
Nthabiseng Hlabahlaba Boston City Campus Bachelor of Commerce in Management Marketing
Gabisile Nzunga Boston City Campus Bachelor of Social Sciences
Jennisha Dayanarain Boston City Campus Diploma in Human Resource Management

Graduate Interview with Thabang Khatide

Graduate Interview with Thabang Khatide

At Boston we are immensely proud of our students and graduates that go out there and DO. You know the Nike payoff line? Just do it? Well, we believe in that payoff line from the point of view that you cannot just sit back and wait for work or relationship or life success to fall in your lap. You have to make things happen! And Mr Thabang Kevin Khatide is one of our grads who is in the process of making things happen!

So what drove Thabang to try our his hand in this career with a difference? “After finishing high school at Pretoria Boys High, I knew I wanted to take a very different trajectory than most. I didn’t see myself going straight into the University, I decided to launch myself into the deep end in the world of entrepreneurship and business. I went on to attend many seminars and embarked on a personal development journey, and soon enough, acquired a key mentor who’s guided me into starting my own business after much ideation.” Thabang continues explaining why he added in some tertiary studies: “For the sake of appeasement of my mom! I decided to complete a short course at Boston City Campus, Lynnwood. The course was in The Principles of Management which had a plethora of ideal entrepreneurial elements.”
Thabang Khatide

Designation: Mr South Africa Top 30 Semi-Finalist / Entrepreneur / Professional Model

Above and beyond that, he stays in studies and “I occasionally take short online courses as well”. “I have a number of things going on in my life varying from my personal career to managing my business and company Velatswi which is a one of a kind city scooter touring company. I thoroughly enjoy spending my days knowing that I am working on a business that can transform many lives in the long run, and simultaneously the process and journey has allowed me to be stretched and challenged as an individual in various ways.” We all know that entrepreneurial ventures are difficult, what is the most difficult aspect for Thabang? “I least enjoy rejection but work through and around it nonetheless.“
Thabang explains what he does during an average day: “On my end the day would start off with an intense gym session followed by a shower and nutritional breakfast. After all that, it’s back to chipping off the daily tasks set out for the week from the Sunday prior to the week start.”

We asked Thabang if someone was thinking of following in his tracks, what would he recommend? He responded that they would need three important qualities:

  • Efficient time management
  • Resilience
  • Grounded character
And how would he describe an entrepreneurial job such as his? “Doing what I do requires someone who’s not only committed to their hustle but has the necessary discipline to fulfil all necessary duties and responsibilities across the board”. He does also believe in training and says, “Training and experience go hand in hand. You’ll need the training to excel when an opportunity opens up to gain the necessary experience.” While Thabang believes in training as discussed above, he also feels that personal development should be a priority. “Personally, I believe we live in a high opportunity world. A world where paper is no longer the prerequisite to get “paper”. I believe each person needs to qualify themselves in whatever they are passionate about and go about it the best way they deem fit to excel in said field. A starting point most ignore is most certainly personal development and really learning how to come into yourself and honing in on who you want to be in a few years’ time”. He has faced challenges such as starting and running a business in the height of the National Lockdown.
To grade 11’s and 12’s. he advises: “Know what you want and start paving the way on how you will get there, because nowadays we have many parents coaxing their children into career paths and degrees the kids are either not interested in or passionate about. The world has changed. There is a way for everyone to make it without always reverting to the traditional means. On tertiary studies he doesn’t adhere to the formal and strict discipline of all school leavers getting a degree, but he adds, “In due time I will probably enroll in some more short courses to add to my skillset and knowledge base. I’m always interested in attaining key information that I can immediately put to use vs it being assessed, marked, and only after some years have passed will I now fully be able to apply it all.” Would he continue his studies t Boston? “My first experience of Boston in an official setting was with the new Lynnwood branch in Pretoria and it had been nothing short of great. The staff was always on par with their friendly and inviting energy and mainly their helpfulness with their students”.

Youth Unemployment Stats

South Africa’s youth bear the burden of the country’s unemployment burden

While the unemployment rate rose an unexpected 0,6%, South Africa is still facing a mass unemployment crisis, with 44.1% of the labour force without work in the second quarter.  This is testament to the fact the country’s jobless rate is highest of 82 nations monitored by Bloomberg.

The Quarterly Labour Force Survey released on Tuesday shows 8 million jobless people still searching for jobs, an increase from 7.9 million in Q1.  Additionally, there are 3.6 million discouraged workers and 700 000 South African’s who have stopped their job search for other reasons.

Ari Katz of Boston City Campus and Boston Media House

Stats for SA youth

“The recently released stats highlight the fact that South Africa’s youth are bearing the brunt of the unemployment burden,” says Ari Katz, CEO Boston City Campus. 

Youth aged 15-24 and 25 -34 recorded the highest unemployment rates of 61,4% and 41,2% respectively.  Approximately 3,7M (35,7%) out of 10,2 M young people aged 15-24 years were not in employment education or training (NEET). This means that more than 1 out 0f 3 young South Africans between these ages were disengaged with the labour market, precluding them from gaining experience or further skills and perpetuating intergenerational poverty.

The NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) rate, seen in conjunction with high youth unemployment rate of over 60%, suggests that the youth face extreme difficulties engaging with the labour market in South Africa.

 

“Companies and institutions need to actively participate in providing and sourcing gainful employment for these youth” says Katz. “We need to be as proactive and as active as possible. We at Boston have an entire department dedicated to coaching, mentoring and assisting students who are in the job-seek space. Students and graduates have a gap in exposure to workplace behaviours and they need extra input in order to secure great jobs!”

Jobs in demand

CareerJunction reported that year-on-year, hiring activity has increased by 23% between June 2021 and June 2022.  However, we need to be cognisant of which skills are in demand when we choose a qualifcation.  

Vacancies over 2022, show these sectors as the most highly sought after:  Finance Sales IT Business & Management Manufacturing & Assembly Admin, Office & Support Building & Construction,.

 

According to Stats SA, Graduates faired better in the workplace environment with the graduate unemployment rate at 10.2%,

 

Graduates need a holistic set of skills – both in terms of their field of expertise, technical know-how to participate in an increasingly digitised work environment and also so called soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem solving, self-discipline and time management.

 

Recent data from Boston Consulting Group  reports that “there is more than 50% of a skills mismatch between the current South African workforce and the demands of the work environment.” This means that we need to be careful when choosing a qualification, but also that we need to adopt a mindset of lifelong learning and upskill even if we are in a job, to remain relevant.   

 

“Skills mismatch (where graduates don’t have the skills to meet the demand, or find themselves in a job where they can’t perform because they have inappropriate skills)  is a key contributing factor to the jobless crisis,” says Katz.  “It is essential for tertiary institutions to have direct communication and interaction with the workplace, so as to create an efficient ecosystem that supplies matching skills to quality jobs in order to build our economy and stimulate graduate entry into the workplace.”

 

This requires a reciprocal interaction by education and private business – where corporations manage training programming and upskilling their employers so that education is informed.

 

“Additionally, government need to take the necessary steps to improve the responsiveness of education and training and academic institutions to develop the necessary qualifications to facilitate skills delivery and meet the evolving needs of the business environment,” says Katz.