In this insightful thought leadership piece by Ursula Fear the Senior Talent Programme Manager at Salesforce, she explores the urgent need to rethink how we develop digital talent in South Africa. 

Her compelling perspective highlights the role of work-integrated learning (WIL) in addressing the country’s digital skills crisis. This as Africa’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, but our education systems are struggling to keep up. Traditional training models can’t meet the demand for agile, digitally skilled workers who can immediately add value in fast-changing environments. 

There’s a disconnect between academic qualifications and job-readiness. WIL is emerging as a powerful model, combining academic study with practical, on-the-job experience. 

Bridging the Skills Gap with Work-Integrated Learning 

CAPACITI’s programme with Salesforce is one example of how WIL is unlocking potential. Together, they are equipping 100 women with in-demand Salesforce administration skills through a programme that blends technical training and mentorship 

To truly close the digital skills gap, more of these partnerships are needed. Continuous, hands-on learning must replace outdated training systems if South Africa hopes to stay globally competitive. 

Now more than ever, partnerships between academia, industry and government are essential. Together, they can build agile, future-ready talent and address South Africa’s digital skills crisis at its root. 

Click here to read the full article and explore how work-integrated learning is reshaping the future of work.