Addressing South Africa's engineering skills gaps

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a case study of how engineering skills gaps are being addressed by Murray & Roberts in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on skills challenges in South Africa from a reflective practitioner perspective, exploring a case example from an industry leader.

Findings

The paper explores how Murray & Roberts, within the context of the broader construction industry in South Africa, has addressed skills shortages with an integrated, multi‐faceted approach with more general application.

Research limitations/implications

The integrated approach to labour mobilization and development proposed has been successful in addressing major infrastructure construction projects. Further research will be needed to establish its broader application.

Originality/value

The paper pragmatically addresses live skills challenges, exploring creative solutions to the scarcity of skilled construction labour experience.

Citation

Hall, J. and Sandelands, E. (2009), "Addressing South Africa's engineering skills gaps", Education + Training, Vol. 51 No. 3, pp. 215-219. https://doi.org/10.1108/00400910910960759