Communications and Digital Technologies Minister, Mondli Gungubele, spearheaded the launch of the Digital Skills Forum (DSF) in a bid to catalyze South Africa’s digital revolution. The forum, aimed at addressing the digital skills gap, will play a pivotal role in coordinating and implementing the national digital skills program.
Official statements from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) highlighted the strategic importance of the DSF. It will not only offer guidance on the digital skills program but also prioritize key areas, mobilize resources, and monitor performance. Additionally, the forum will advise on reshaping the digital skills development ecosystem to bolster skill-building efforts.
This initiative builds upon the National Digital and Future Skills Framework, approved by Cabinet on August 5, 2020. Developed by the DCDT, this framework aims to prioritize essential digital and future skills while ensuring a cohesive approach across government and sectors.
In recognizing the significance of digital literacy, the South African government has actively partnered with international organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Labour Organisation, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to develop and implement digital skills programs.
The establishment of the Digital Skills Forum aligns with recommendations from the Presidential Commission on the 4th Industrial Revolution (PC4IR). This move addresses concerns regarding the silo mentality within the skills development ecosystem and aims to adapt curricula to meet evolving workplace demands.
Key responsibilities of DSF members include providing technical support to the Human Resources Development Council (HRDC), facilitating knowledge sharing, mobilizing resources, advising on ecosystem redesign, and overseeing the prioritization of digital skills initiatives. The forum will also monitor and evaluate action plans while endorsing recommendations from technical working groups.
South Africa’s National Digital and Future Skills Strategy emphasizes the critical role of leadership and governance in driving successful digital skills development. By establishing the DSF as a central coordinating body, the government aims to streamline efforts and ensure effective implementation of digital skills programs.
The launch of the Digital Skills Forum signifies South Africa’s commitment to embracing digital transformation and bridging the digital divide. With a coordinated approach and strategic partnerships, the nation is poised to equip its citizens with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
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