Tag: job market

Should graduates be worried about Artificial Intelligence (AI)? AI is changing what it means to step into the job market. At the same time, it is opening doors for those ready to learn. Graduation is a moment of arrival. It represents the first exciting step into adulthood, independence and the beginning of a career.

You’ve put in the hours, written the exams and now graduation is on the horizon. But when should you start applying for jobs? How early is too early? Whether you’re completing a diploma, higher certificate, degree or even a postgraduate programme like a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), timing matters.

As industries continue to undergo rapid digital transformation, the question on everyone's mind is, "Will AI take my job?". The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the job landscape, but rather than replacing humans outright, it’s creating new opportunities. While some traditional tasks may be automated, entirely new roles are emerging that require unique skills in AI, data and digital expertise.

The network effect of building your own professional network early in life offers huge advantages. However, most graduates are unaware of the benefits of building connections with a large number of people working in their industry. Graduates are also unsure of how to create a significant professional network.

The South African government has concluded its 2025 budget deliberations. It announced a Value Added Tax (VAT) increase of 0.5% from May 2025. It also announced a possible further 0.5% hike by April 2026. These increases are part of measures to address the growing budget deficit.

With the 2024 matric pass rate on the rise, employers face an influx of job applicants. But how can companies ensure they are hiring candidates based on genuine qualifications? South Africa has celebrated a notable increase in the matric pass rate for 2024 - from 82.9% in 2023 to 87.3%.

Continuous learning is essential for professionals to stay relevant, adapt to changing demands and advance in their careers. Professionalism demands continuous learning may be a cliché, but the world of work is changing at an unprecedented pace. As the future unfolds, evolving workplace demands require even seasoned professionals to keep learning.

The shifting landscape of the energy sector towards sustainability and efficiency will have implications for workforce and skills development, with organisations needing to explore how to navigate this transition effectively. South Africa’s draft Integrated Resources Plan (IRP) for the energy sector introduces new energy sources such as nuclear, gas and hydrogen into the mix, which calls for proactive measures to be taken to prepare workforces for these incoming technologies.

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to supercharge every aspect of business and society, South Africa stands at a critical juncture. Rather than fearing job displacement, we can harness AI to drive widespread growth and prosperity. By fostering local innovation, investing in AI education, and creating a conducive regulatory environment, we can empower citizens and businesses alike.

The phenomenon of job-title inflation has gained traction in South Africa, driven both by young professional’s ambition for accelerated career progression and employers' efforts to engage staff while managing costs. This trend has led to an increase in roles with prestigious titles, such as 'Lead', 'Vice President', or 'Manager', being offered to individuals with limited experience, skills, or corresponding salaries.