In an insightful interview with CNBC Africa’s Zanele Morrison, Mteto Nyati, Chairman of BSG, addressed the critical issue of youth employment in the digital era. Nyati highlighted the severe skills shortage in South Africa, despite the country having a large number of unemployed graduates. He emphasised the urgent need to connect these graduates with the necessary digital skills to fill the gaps in various industries, including financial services, ICT, and telecommunications.
Nyati introduced Collective X, a collaborative initiative bringing together key stakeholders such as businesses, training providers, and funders to address this skills gap. This initiative aims to ensure that young people are equipped with the right skills to meet industry demands. The goal is to double the national throughput of in-demand digital skills over the next three years, developing 10,000 skilled professionals.
Nyati pointed out that while long-term educational reforms are necessary, the immediate focus should be on addressing the current unemployment crisis by providing work-integrated learning opportunities. He shared examples of successful training programs from his time at Microsoft, where similar initiatives led to significant employment outcomes for young people.
The interview concluded with Nyati’s optimistic view of the South African youth’s potential, emphasising the need for collective action to unlock their capabilities and drive economic growth. He called for a united effort to provide young people with the opportunities and skills required to thrive in the digital economy.
You can watch the interview here
