How to bridge the skills gap in SA’s renewables sector

South Africa has recently released its updated critical skills list, highlighting the priority skills lacking in the South African job market. This list serves as a guide for foreigners wishing to work in South Africa and provides valuable insights into the skills needed to bridge the country's existing skills gap. To delve deeper into this critical issue, Bruce Torian, the Commercial Group Executive at AdCorp, joins the discussion. The critical skills list is a result of various forms of analysis and data collection from different bodies, offering a comprehensive view of the skills landscape. It reflects both current job market demands and future needs, providing a roadmap for addressing the skills shortage. Bruce highlighted the importance of private-public partnerships in enhancing technical skills through TVET colleges but emphasized the need to bridge the gap in specialized skills required for emerging industries like renewable energy. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with OEMs entering the renewable sector to ensure local talent is equipped to work on advanced technologies. The conversation also touched on the challenge of balancing the need for specific skills with the restrictions on foreign workers announced by the president. Bruce stressed the importance of integrating skills development with broader transformation objectives to ensure local communities benefit from imported skills. The discussion also addressed the adjustment in requirements for company size importing critical skills, with a focus on holding larger corporations accountable for skill utilization. Despite these adjustments, South Africa remains an attractive destination for foreign workers, offering lifestyle benefits and opportunities for remote work. The evolving landscape of remote work and Fintech platforms has made it easier for individuals to work across borders without the need for physical presence, enhancing the appeal of South Africa as a work destination. While there are challenges and costs associated with hiring foreign talent, the ability to attract scarce skills from around the globe presents valuable opportunities for growth and innovation in the South African economy.