Pietermaritzburg:Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Nomusa Dube-Ncube has urged the Matric Class of 2026 to explore career opportunities that align with the evolving job market, emphasizing fields such as technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture.
According to South African Government News Agency, Dube-Ncube made these remarks during an annual mass prayer for Grade 12 learners in Pietermaritzburg, uMgungundlovu District. The event, held on Thursday, gathered various stakeholders involved in preparing students for their National Senior Certificate examinations and future endeavors.
Addressing approximately 3,000 learners, Dube-Ncube highlighted the importance of making informed decisions about post-school education to enhance employment prospects. She referenced the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025, which predicts a global net gain of 78 million jobs by 2030, despite some job losses.
The report identifies a growing demand for professionals in big data, financial technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, software development, cybersecurity, and renewable energy. Dube-Ncube encouraged students to consider technical and artisan careers, emphasizing the need for practical skills and technological knowledge.
Dube-Ncube also noted South Africa's achievements in the 48th WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai, where Matthew Bowen received a silver medal in Aircraft Maintenance, showcasing the opportunities available through skills development. She stressed the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, citing uMgungundlovu TVET College's programs as examples.
Encouraging students to improve their performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, Dube-Ncube pointed out the correlation between these subjects and access to science, engineering, and technology careers. She referenced a Quarterly Labour Force Survey by Statistics South Africa, which reported a youth unemployment rate of 47.4% in the second quarter of 2026, highlighting the gap between qualifications and employer needs.
Dube-Ncube advised learners to make informed decisions regarding their studies, emphasizing that these choices are crucial economic decisions.