As many new and returning students continue waiting for confirmation of their registration and acceptance at universities across the country, the local narrative around higher education remains skewed towards universities as the ultimate gateway to success. Sphiwe Masuku, Fundi’s Head of Brand and Marketing, argues that the long-standing belief that a university degree holds more “value” than technical and vocational education, has led to a widespread underestimation of the value of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. This perception, however, does not align with the country’s critical skills needs or the realities of our evolving economy.
With the global job market and career opportunities evolving rapidly, many young South Africans continue making career choices based on societal perceptions of success rather than their natural skillsets and interests. “There is an increasing trend of students pursuing so-called “smart” career paths – university degrees that are seen as prestigious – while overlooking vocational training that could better match their abilities and offer greater job security in the long-term,” notes Masuku. “This is exacerbating the skills gap in critical sectors of the economy, where artisans and technicians are in high demand but in short supply.”
She emphasises that addressing this misalignment requires a fundamental shift in how we perceive TVET education: “The latest research from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) highlights our local skills gap, particularly when it comes to artisanal and technical fields. We need at least 30 000 qualified artisans annually to meet industry demands, yet we are producing only about half of that number[1].”
According to the 2024 National List of Occupations in High Demand published by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), key trades such as electricians, millwrights, boilermakers and plumbers remain in high demand, yet there are insufficient skilled professionals to fill these roles. “These careers not only offer strong earning potential but are also vital to infrastructure development, manufacturing and the green economy.”
Despite these opportunities, many students still opt for university degrees that, while valuable, do not always lead to employment in high-demand sectors. “This means we have a growing mismatch between what the labour market requires and the skills being supplied – contributing to our pervasive youth unemployment challenge. Graduates continue struggling to find jobs that align with their qualifications. Meanwhile, industries across the construction, engineering, automotive and energy sectors are in dire need of skilled artisans and technicians.”
TVET colleges are the places that offer the practical, hands-on training tailored to the demands of these industries. “Unlike traditional academic programmes, these institutions equip students with work-ready skills, ensuring that they graduate with not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical expertise needed to thrive in their fields. Many TVET programmes include workplace-based learning components, giving students direct exposure to industry environments while they study.”
Masuku adds that many TVET qualifications are also structured to support entrepreneurship. “With access to skills such as plumbing, welding and electrical work, graduates are not only employable but capable of starting their own businesses, creating employment opportunities rather than merely seeking them. This is particularly true in township and rural economies, especially when it comes to local job creation and economic sustainability[2].”
With the historical bias against TVET education stemming from outdated views that vocational training is a lesser form of education, Masuku believes more must be done to promote the value of skills-based learning: “Leading economies worldwide, including those of Germany and China, have built strong vocational education systems that drive innovation, economic growth, and employment. South Africa must do the same.
“We need to dismantle the misconception that TVET education is a ‘second-choice’ pathway. Instead, we must recognise it as a critical enabler of economic transformation, particularly for young South Africans seeking stable, well-paid career opportunities.”
With the future of work in South Africa evolving rapidly, students, parents and educators need to view TVET as an essential pillar of higher education: one that directly addresses our skills shortages, supports economic development and provides real opportunities for young people to succeed. “As Fundi, we remain committed to supporting all forms of education, ensuring that students have access to funding and resources regardless of their chosen learning pathway. We encourage young people to deeply engage with their future career path possibilities in order to understand all of the options available to them. This will ensure the ‘smart’ choice they make doesn’t limit their futures,” Masuku concludes.
[1] DHET Skills Supply and Demand Report, 2022
[2] Report on an Investigation of Youth Employment Policy Solutions adopted by the South African Government
