The job market in South Africa and globally is going through some big changes, with the idea of scarce skills becoming more important. Scarce skills in South Africa are those unique abilities and qualifications that employers want but are hard to come by, creating both challenges and also huge opportunities for job hunters.
Why focus on scarce skills?
A career in areas identified as scarce skills offers many advantages:
- Job security: when you have skills that are hard to find, companies want you, which means your job is less likely to be at risk during tough economic times.
- Higher salaries: employers are willing to pay more to bring in and keep the best talent.
- More chances to climb the ladder: you’re likely to see quicker promotions and more opportunities.
When professionals step in to fill roles in key areas, like technology and engineering, they help build up industries vital for the country's advancement. Their know-how sparks new ideas, help companies keep up with global trends and compete better internationally. This ultimately strengthens the national economy and opens up more job opportunities.
Overview of scarce skills in South Africa
Careers in high demand in South Africa include fields such as engineering, healthcare, information technology, finance and education. Job market trends in South Africa suggest that specific skills are in short supply and point to certain careers being among the best professions to pursue in South Africa:
- IT professionals, like software developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts and AI specialists, are in high demand. Having IT skills is essential for driving innovation, boosting productivity, and ensuring that businesses run smoothly, all of which contribute to economic growth.
- There’s a big need for healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and specialists like surgeons. This demand is growing due to a shortage (worsened by emigration), an increasing population, chronic health issues, and an ageing society. We need skilled healthcare workers to tackle public health challenges and ease the burden on our healthcare services.
- Civil, electrical, mechanical, and mining engineers are highly sought after because our economy depends on building infrastructure and energy projects. Engineers are crucial for driving industrial growth and developing infrastructure, which are key for economic progress, job creation and sustainability.
- There’s a high demand for teachers, especially those who specialise in subjects like maths, science and technology. Education is the foundation for developing essential skills, and teachers play a vital role in preparing the future workforce.
- Financial analysts and accountants are increasingly needed as businesses and industries require financial experts to manage their finances and plan for the future. Effective financial management and strategic planning are important for companies to grow, attract investors and maintain a stable economy.
Educational and training paths
Following specific and well planned educational paths and training for high-demand jobs in South Africa are crucial to success:
- IT specialists: you’ll need a Bachelor's degree in fields like computer science, information technology, software engineering, or data science from accredited universities in South Africa. It’s also a good idea to get some industry certifications, such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, CISSP, Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect, or Certified Data Professional. Additionally, consider enrolling in bootcamps or online courses that focus on programming languages like Python or Java, cybersecurity, or cloud computing to boost your skills.
- Healthcare professionals: to become a doctor, you’ll need a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB). Nurses earn a Bachelor of Nursing, while pharmacists obtain a Bachelor of Pharmacy. Healthcare professionals must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
- Engineers: you’ll need a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc Eng) in areas like civil, electrical, mechanical or mining engineering. To practice as a professional engineer you must be registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa.
- Teachers: for teaching at primary and secondary levels, you'll need a Bachelor of Education (BEd). If you already have a degree in another field and want to teach that specific area, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is the way to go. To teach in South Africa you must be certified by the South African Council for Educators.
- Financial analysts and accountants: you’ll need a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in accounting or finance. Get certified as a chartered accountant (CA) through the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
Careers and opportunities
IT specialists can work in IT companies, finance, e-commerce, healthcare, media, telecommunications, and government. Big employers in SA include Naspers, Vodacom and Standard Bank.
Healthcare professionals can work in public and private sectors, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, medical schemes and NGOs. Top employers include Netcare, Discovery, Dischem and Aspen.
Engineers can find jobs in construction, energy, mining, manufacturing and infrastructure. Entities and companies like Eskom, Sasol, Transnet and Concor are among the largest employers.
Teachers and academics can work as primary or secondary school teachers, university lecturers, or educational consultants in public and private schools, universities and educational consultancies.
Financial analysts and accountants can work in various industries, including finance, banking, insurance and government. Employers include Deloitte, PwC SA, Sanlam, Old Mutual and Capitec.
Future trends in scarce skills
New technologies like AI, renewable energy and digital marketing are changing the job market and increasing the need for specific skills in fields like machine learning, sustainable energy, and data-focused marketing. As these industries grow, professionals will need to be flexible and keep their skills fresh by taking online courses and learning skills from different areas.
Picking a career in a field where skills are in short supply in South Africa comes with many perks. You can enjoy job security, earn a good salary and enjoy plenty of opportunity to advance your career, all while helping boost the country's economy. As industries change, professionals need to plan their careers wisely, keep their eyes on the horizon, and match their skills with what’s coming next. Those who embrace lifelong learning, updating and upskilling regularly, will be best placed to get ahead, and stay there.
About The IIE’s Varsity College
The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE) of which Varsity College is a brand, is South Africa’s largest registered and accredited private provider of higher education. At Varsity College we understand that no two students are the same or learn the same. That’s why we make sure a student’s education is shaped around them; how they like to learn, what they are passionate about, what makes them tick, and what makes them thrive. Our Education by Design approach allows students to grow into their best, and creates a space where they can live, learn and play – their way.