I have been thinking a lot about why young people find it hard to land jobs. With Youth Month upon us, it’s a perfect time to address this issue. It’s no secret that finding a job these days can feel like trying to find a Wi-Fi signal in the middle of nowhere. The youth unemployment rate in South Africa is staggering, with over 30% of young people struggling to find work. But don’t despair. There’s a way to beat the odds and secure your future: focus on scarce skills. These are skills that are in high demand but short supply, meaning employers are practically begging to hire people who have them. So, let’s take a look at some of these golden opportunities, shall we?
- Data Science and Analytics
Imagine you’re a detective, but instead of solving crimes, you are solving business problems using data. That is what data scientists do. With businesses drowning in data, they need experts to help make sense of it all. And if you can predict the next big trend before it happens, you will be the Sherlock Holmes of the corporate world.
Relatable Example: Think about how Pick n Pay decides what products to put on sale. A data scientist analyses customer buying habits and tells the store what items people are likely to buy more of during certain times. It’s like having a superpower.
- Cybersecurity
As we move more of our lives online, keeping that information safe is more important than ever. Cybersecurity experts are the digital bodyguards of the internet. They protect sensitive information from hackers and cybercriminals.
Relatable Example: Remember that time when TransUnion and the Reserve Bank got hacked and your details were at risk? A cybersecurity expert is the hero who steps in to prevent that from happening again.
- Renewable Energy Engineering
With Eskom’s load shedding shenanigans, the need for alternative energy sources is crystal clear. Renewable energy engineers work on developing sustainable energy solutions like solar, wind, and hydropower.
Relatable Example: Picture yourself working on a project that helps your community get solar panels, making load shedding a thing of the past. You will be the local hero who keeps the lights on.
4 Agricultural Technology
South Africa is rich in natural resources, and agriculture is a key part of our economy. Agricultural technologists use modern technology to improve farming methods, increase productivity, and ensure food security.
Relatable Example: Imagine creating a system that helps farmers monitor their crops using drones and sensors, ensuring they get the best harvest possible. It’s farming, but make it tech-savvy.
5 Artisanal Skills
Believe it or not, there’s a high demand for skilled artisans like electricians, plumbers, and welders. These are practical, hands-on jobs that are essential in our daily lives.
Relatable Example: When the geyser bursts and floods the house, the person you need most is a skilled plumber. Or when there’s a power outage, an electrician saves the day. These skills are invaluable and always in demand.
6. Healthcare and Nursing
With a growing population and the constant need for medical care, healthcare professionals are always in demand. Nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers play a vital role in keeping communities healthy.
Relatable Example: During the pandemic, healthcare workers were the frontline heroes, providing care and support to those in need. Their skills are essential, and the demand for them will never fade.
7 Software Development
In a world that’s becoming increasingly digital, software developers are the architects of the future. They create the apps and programs that we use every day, from social media platforms to banking apps.
Relatable Example: Ever wonder who makes those cool mobile games you can’t put down? That’s a software developer. And with new apps popping up all the time, the need for skilled developers is skyrocketing.
Conclusion
So, matriculants, as you navigate your final year of high school and think about your future, consider these scarce skills. They offer exciting career paths and a way to stand out in a crowded job market. Plus, you will be doing work that’s crucial to the country’s development. And who knows? You might just become the next big thing in your chosen field. Happy Youth Month and good luck!