Tag: World Wide Industrial & System Engineers (WWISE)

Rising unemployment, growing labour underutilisation and deepening skills mismatches continue to expose a widening disconnect between available jobs and workplace-ready talent in South Africa. As a result, the unemployment crisis is no longer only about job scarcity. It now also reflects serious workforce-readiness challenges.

South Africa can take many lessons from the UAE and Saudi Arabia and how they have fortified themselves against the impact of US trade tariffs. In an era marked by shifting global trade dynamics, Middle Eastern countries have showcased impressive foresight and agility.

A report published by market research specialist In On Africa in August last year presented some interesting insights about artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in South Africa. In a survey of more than 3,000 South Africans working across various industries, 59% stated that they knew about ChatGPT but only 38% had used it previously.

The time has come for South African telecommunication companies to face greater scrutiny. With data prices higher in South Africa than in many other African states, these companies should be more accountable to their customers. Yet this is not happening.

Applying ISO standardisation principles and processes could be a gamechanger for businesses under pressure. South Africa hopes to reach net zero emissions by 2050 in its low-emission development strategy. While the target has already received significant buy-in from local companies and institutions, none are under any illusions about the challenge that lies ahead.

Failure to implement effective compliance and accountability systems is costing the public sector dearly and making supply chains fertile ground for corruption. If the South African government is serious about stopping the rot, strict measures need to be introduced in state departments and safeguards against cyberattacks significantly improved.