DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION DOMINATED DISCUSSIONS AT THE YOUTH EMPLOYABILITY INDABA AND CAREER EXPO

Young minds from more than 50 schools in eThekwini were enriched at the recent Youth Employability Indaba and Career Expo hosted by eThekwini Municipality.

Aimed at addressing labour market barriers, primarily the mismatch between available skills and industry needs, the Indaba and Expo featured speakers from various educational institutions and corporate sectors to capacitate learners with information and skills that are aligned with employability.

With the spotlight firmly on embracing the digital space as a key driver for empowerment and future readiness, learners were empowered with information on the importance of preparing themselves for a tech-centric future through effective digital literacy education. This included showcasing digital tools, platforms, and career paths in tech-driven industries.

Councillor Ntando Khuzwayo, who was speaking on behalf of eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, said the City is concerned about the rising graduate numbers and job seekers who lack the competencies required by the job market.

“Learners often graduate without real-world experience or understanding of workplace expectations. These challenges lead to a high rate of social-ills such as poverty, crime and unemployment, which impacts negatively on the economy,” he said.

Bridging the employability and skills gap between the education system and today’s job market was highlighted as a pressing global challenge.

Technological changes have become one of the major drivers in shaping and transforming the labour market.

Councillor Khuzwayo said the Municipality partnering with various sectors for the Youth Career Expo will assist to bridge the gap between education, employment and the demands of the modern job market.

“The aim is to have a coordinated approach, that aligns education systems with market realities,” he added.

Learners were exposed to various service industries that will help them make better-informed career choices and acquire skills that meet job market demands.

EThekwini City Manager, Musa Mbhele, motivated the youth to take charge of the opportunities available, saying they can play a transformative role in addressing unemployment by leveraging the digital space creatively and strategically.

“Bridging the employability and skills gap is a crucial challenge for the youth today, especially in a rapidly evolving job market.”

He added that the digital space plays a transformative role in bridging the employability and skills gap by exposing the youth to knowledge, tools and opportunities.

“I am encouraging you to take advantage of the digital space to be exposed to diverse career paths and gain insights into specific industries and job opportunities,” he said.

Khulasande Magwaza, from Emachobeni Secondary School in Inanda, highlighted that the programme has transformed his career outlooks, as well as capacitating him about the world of work.

“This was an empowering experience to be exposed to a variety of career opportunities that will enable me to make informed career decisions,” he said.

ENDS

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit