So how do we solve this impasse? According to Sean Sharp, executive head of Sales at EduPower Skills Academy, learnerships are the only solution.
“Learnerships bridge the gap between school and work. They can provide the essential skills to help young people get onto the employment ladder and once there, build solid career trajectories,” Sharp explains. `
In a structured programme, a learnership is typically a 12-month qualification. Through work-based learning, learners sharpen the knowledge and skills needed for a specific job – all of which prepares them for the workplace. But what are the key skills developed by learnerships? Three learners from EduPower explain the five key skills they have acquired during their learnerships:
Sharp says that EduPower not only teaches its learners the skills they need to prepare them for the world of work but also inspires each of its learners to dream, lighting a fire that will change their lives forever.
“Learnerships can play a pivotal role in providing opportunities for youngsters and developing the skills and attitudes that businesses need,” Sharp explains.
More learnerships are, however, needed to tip the scales and get young South Africans working.
“Business can make a fundamental difference by investing in the growth and development of our youth. This will mean business gets the practical skills and theoretical knowledge they need whilst enabling our youth to become skilled, competent, and well-rounded contributors to South Africa’s economy, workforce and communities.”