RACA Journal July 2023 | Page 3

RACA Journal : ISSN 1812-772X

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RACA Journal Publication www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za eamonn @ interactmedia . co . za

WHAT DOES YOUTH MONTH MEAN TO HVAC & R ?

Youth Month is an opportunity for companies to do something about youth unemployment by taking on apprentices .

Youth Month ( June ) in South Africa serves as a reminder of the incredible potential and power of the country ' s young generation . In an era of rapid technological advancements , the Fourth Industrial Revolution ( 4IR ) has the potential to reshape industries , economies and societies .

The entire global economy is moving inexorably towards 4IR – but the ordinary communities and especially the youth are not part of this movement . STEM subjects – science , technology , engineering and maths – form the bedrock for nurturing innovative thinkers and problem solvers . Through STEM education , children develop critical thinking , analytical reasoning , and creativity , enabling them to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world . By providing South African children with a solid foundation in STEM , we can cultivate a generation of innovators who will drive technological advancements and propel the nation ' s progress in the 4IR .

A number of NGO programmes exist to upskill young people and inspire them to become qualified technicians , systems developers or analysts in the field of ICT . To turn around the skills shortage in HVAC & R , the sector has the opportunity to partner with such programmes and add HVAC & R to the curriculum . As 4IR unfolds , the demand for STEM-related skills is growing exponentially . South Africa needs a highly skilled workforce to compete globally and drive economic growth . By each company doing its bit to emphasise STEM education , we can bridge the skills gap and equip South African children with the knowledge and expertise required for emerging careers in fields such as artificial intelligence , robotics , data science , HVAC & R , and renewable energy . Preparing children for these careers not only ensures their individual success but also contributes to the nation ' s economic development .

Many South Africans from schools in underprivileged areas have no access to computers and technology , and consequently have limited potential to keep up with the rapid evolution towards 4IR and the wealth of careers that this revolution in the workplace is creating .

Many HVAC & R companies appear reluctant to take on apprentices for fear they will leave once they pass the trade test , but this is to miss the bigger picture that if more companies accepted apprentices – for which they receive meaningful grants

from government – this would serve to uplift the skills level of the entire industry .

The private sector needs to be involved in ensuring its own pipeline of skills , as government is clearly not up to the task . In a previous article in RACA Journal , Grant Laidlaw , CEO of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy ( ACRA ) and SAIRAC national treasurer , commented that TVET institutions have massive performance issues .

He noted that an audit conducted on their staff revealed that a troubling percentage of teachers were not qualified to do the training they are employed to do and were consequently described as having ‘ qualifications unknown ’. “ I don ’ t believe that industry is willing to take on graduates of public TVETs , as students don ’ t learn sufficiently there . The TVETs , for instance , don ’ t for the most part utilise practical workshops notwithstanding the large amount of public money they receive . There are exceptions , of course .”

South Africa has a long history of socioeconomic inequality . STEM education has the potential to be a powerful equaliser , providing children from all backgrounds with an opportunity to access lucrative and high-demand careers . By ensuring that all children receive quality STEM education , regardless of their socioeconomic status , we can break the cycle of poverty and foster a more inclusive society .

Diversity and representation are critical for innovation and problem-solving in a field such as engineering . STEM fields have traditionally been dominated by certain demographic groups , resulting in a lack of diverse perspectives and ideas . By promoting STEM education among South African children , particularly those from underrepresented communities and marginalised backgrounds , we can encourage diversity , inclusivity , and representation in the future workforce . This not only enriches the STEM sector but also leads to more holistic and comprehensive solutions to complex problems .

In 4IR , digital literacy and technological competence are prerequisites for full participation in the economy and society . By providing South African children with a strong STEM education , we equip them with the skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape , leverage emerging technologies , and adapt to the rapid pace of change . STEM education empowers children to become active creators and users of technology , rather than passive consumers . RACA

Eamonn

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