The SETA should prioritize the following in the next financial year:
Accelerated Digital Skills Training Programmes
SETA should invest heavily in training initiatives that equip youth, unemployed graduates, and existing workers with critical 4IR skills, including coding, data science, digital marketing, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. These programmes must be accessible, practical, and aligned with industry needs.
Support for Small and Community-Based Organizations
SETA should provide targeted funding, capacity-building, and infrastructure support to smaller and community-based organizations working at grassroots levels. These organizations are key to reaching marginalized groups but often lack the resources to integrate advanced technologies or scale their impact.
Industry Partnerships for Workplace-Based Learning
SETA should strengthen partnerships with businesses and tech companies to create more structured internships, apprenticeships, and workplace-based learning opportunities. Practical exposure is essential for bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world digital work readiness.
Building Resilience Against Infrastructure Challenges
Given the ongoing impact of loadshedding and connectivity issues, SETA should support initiatives that improve digital infrastructure resilience, such as providing grants for alternative energy sources (solar, battery solutions) and affordable internet access for learning institutions and training providers.