Skills shortage must be addressed at school level

Skills shortages remain one of the greatest concerns in supply chain management, says Peter Kilbour, a senior lecturer in the department of transport at the University of Johannesburg. “It is no secret that we have a massive skills shortage which is supported by all the research we have undertaken.” According to Kilbour the problem starts with basic education. Of the 2.8 million South Africans between the ages of 18 and 24 who were (in 2007) not in employment, education or training, two million (71%) have not achieved Grade 12. Of these 0.5m (18%) have not progressed beyond primary school. Add to that the fact that the logistics sector is not seen as a very “sexy option” to young people, and the industry is faced with a major challenge. Kilbour says it is important for universities and the private sector to engage with potential new entrants at school level.