Engineers, technologists and technicians

Abstract

This chapter considers whether there has been a continuation of previous rends observed in engineering capacity in the South African labour market. An evaluation of the labour market for engineers and technicians over the period 1005-1999 revealed a decline in engineering graduates, a decline in employment of engineers and technicians and a shift away from traditional sectors that employ engineers. This chapter explores trends over the period 2000-2004 with regard to the supply of engineers, technologists and technicians. In line with the aims of the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa. The analysis indicates that the tertiary education system seems to be in touch with Industry demands, in that it offers broad-nased engineering degrees that are flexible in responding to changes and demands in the work environment and its increasing the number of engineering graduates. However, although there is a shortage in specialization in specific disciplines that are essential for innovation and stimulation of economic growth. The chapter concludes that the problem of poor secondary education has not been addressed as yet, and should be an national priority as an increased supply of suitably skilled entrants to tertiary institutions is central to improving the supply of engineering capacity.