, ENG1503 ASSIGNMENT 1
SEMESTER 2 2026
DUE DATE: 17 AUGUST 2026
QUESTION 1
The text draws attention to three major issues associated with skills shortages in South
Africa. Firstly, many businesses struggle to recruit employees who have the appropriate
skills for available positions. This creates difficulties for organisations because important
vacancies may remain unfilled and existing workers may have to carry additional
responsibilities. Secondly, the article points to shortages in several important areas,
particularly digital skills, soft skills and environmental sustainability skills. Employees
need these abilities to use technology, analyse information, solve problems,
communicate effectively and respond to changing business conditions. Thirdly, the text
stresses the importance of cooperation between businesses, government and
educational institutions. Employers need to provide opportunities for practical learning,
while schools, colleges and universities should ensure that their programmes prepare
students for workplace requirements. Government also needs to support effective skills-
development initiatives. Overall, the text demonstrates that South Africa's skills shortage
is a shared challenge that requires coordinated action from different sectors of society.
QUESTION 2
Skills shortages are a serious challenge for South African businesses because they can
affect the way organisations operate, grow and compete. One important reason is that
employers may have difficulty finding suitable workers for specialised positions. When
vacancies remain open, existing employees can experience increased workloads, which
may reduce efficiency. A second reason is the rapid development of technology.
SEMESTER 2 2026
DUE DATE: 17 AUGUST 2026
QUESTION 1
The text draws attention to three major issues associated with skills shortages in South
Africa. Firstly, many businesses struggle to recruit employees who have the appropriate
skills for available positions. This creates difficulties for organisations because important
vacancies may remain unfilled and existing workers may have to carry additional
responsibilities. Secondly, the article points to shortages in several important areas,
particularly digital skills, soft skills and environmental sustainability skills. Employees
need these abilities to use technology, analyse information, solve problems,
communicate effectively and respond to changing business conditions. Thirdly, the text
stresses the importance of cooperation between businesses, government and
educational institutions. Employers need to provide opportunities for practical learning,
while schools, colleges and universities should ensure that their programmes prepare
students for workplace requirements. Government also needs to support effective skills-
development initiatives. Overall, the text demonstrates that South Africa's skills shortage
is a shared challenge that requires coordinated action from different sectors of society.
QUESTION 2
Skills shortages are a serious challenge for South African businesses because they can
affect the way organisations operate, grow and compete. One important reason is that
employers may have difficulty finding suitable workers for specialised positions. When
vacancies remain open, existing employees can experience increased workloads, which
may reduce efficiency. A second reason is the rapid development of technology.
