We are now a few weeks into the 2024 academic year for tertiary learners in South Africa. The next few years will be crucial for many, as pursuing the right qualification can set them up for life after studying.
The gamut of business leaders ran wide, with Hypertext receiving valuable insight and feedback from companies in the telecommunications, fintech, cybersecurity, energy, insurtech, and ecommerce spaces. As such, a STEM-related qualification serves as the foundation upon which all other future learning decisions can be made.
“New graduates need to be able to write programs and learn to use complex tools in areas like AI and Generative AI. Degree programmes in Engineering and Science including Computer Science develop these skills, but they are also found in Commerce degrees including Actuarial Science and Econometrics,” he explained.
“AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, software engineering and data science are all fields that will continue to grow over the next decade. But there are also many opportunities coming to the fore in areas such as healthcare, agriculture and green technology,” she added on how AI will start to influence other sectors in time.
Speaking from the energy perspective, Ross Mains-Sheard, CEO and co-founder of Versofy SOLAR, noted how vocational work has sometimes been overlooked, but still holds a valuable place in any country. “I definitely believe in the benefits of tertiary education, even though there have been many successful individuals who have gone far without it. Despite this, I think there is huge value in taking time after school – the so-called ‘Gap Year’. To be exposed to the value of money and how to earn it, see the world, and get exposed to career options,” she posited.