Experience Tops Wish List as South Africa Faces Ongoing ICT Skills Shortage
On October 29, 2024, the IITPSA ICT Skills Survey was unveiled, shedding light on critical skill shortages within South Africa’s rapidly evolving information and communications technology (ICT) landscape. The findings, presented by Tony Parry, CEO of IITPSA, alongside Hloni Mokenela, Managing Director of Africa Analysis SA, highlighted a growing demand for specific technical skills as practitioners increasingly seek opportunities beyond South African borders.
The Skills Gap
The 2024 survey indicates that organizations are currently prioritizing information security and cyber security (46%), followed by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning at 32%, and big data/data science at 19%. Each of these sectors is grappling with significant shortages that may hinder overall technological advancement in the country. For instance, 27% of companies reported current shortages in AI/ML skills, with an additional 32% anticipating further deficiencies in the future.
As sectors strive to fill these gaps, traditional educational paths appear inadequate. Tony Parry pointed out that employers prioritize professional experience over academic credentials, with 47% of respondents defending this new focus. He also noted that recent graduates are often perceived as lacking the necessary practical skills to be immediately effective in the workplace.
Evolution of Programming Languages
Interestingly, the survey results reveal shifts in programming language usage within organizations. Python has emerged as the most popular language among respondents, surpassing previously dominant languages like JavaScript and Java. This transition aligns with global trends where Python’s versatility and ease of use have made it a preferred choice in tech environments.
Brain Drain: A Growing Concern
The survey also highlighted critical factors contributing to the skills shortage, with 24% of employers citing the migration of skilled talent from South Africa as a primary concern. Other contributing factors include insufficient numbers of new graduates (24%) and a notable lack of training (26%). Businesses are feeling the negative impact of these skills gaps, with 65% indicating that such shortages have moderate to severe consequences for their operations.
Among the ICT professionals surveyed, there is a notable trend of seeking remote opportunities, with 49% considering working for overseas clients, further escalating the brain drain issue.
Professional Development as a Solution
Amid these challenges, companies are stepping up efforts to retain skilled employees by enhancing their professional development programs. Flexibility in work schedules and performance bonuses have become common incentives aimed at nurturing talent. Interestingly, 44% of employers now offer flexible work arrangements, while 41% are investing in professional development initiatives, often leveraging online platforms like Coursera and Skillshare.
The Need for Improved Education and Training
According to Hloni Mokenela, there’s an urgent need to enhance ICT education and training programs in South Africa. Mokenela emphasized that while many corporations prefer tertiary qualifications to establish foundational skills, the industry’s rapid evolution necessitates ongoing professional development to ensure practitioners remain relevant in their fields.
To address the growing skills gap, collaborative efforts are essential, focusing on improving the work-readiness of graduates and increasing the input from educational institutions in producing qualified ICT professionals. It is vital for stakeholders to coordinate these training initiatives and for educators to align closely with industry expectations.
In conclusion, while South Africa faces serious skills shortages in critical ICT fields, the proactive measures taken by employers and the demand for continuous learning present a pathway towards bridging these gaps. Companies and graduates alike must embrace innovative training routes to navigate the complexities of a fast-changing digital landscape.
For further information about training and development opportunities in the ICT sector, visit our resources page.
