African Leadership University releases groundbreaking 2025 Africa workforce readiness survey

In a groundbreaking move that provides crucial insights into the perspectives of school leavers and employers in Africa, African Leadership University (ALU) has published the first pan-African survey on higher education, careers, and the economy.

The ALU 2025 Africa Workforce Readiness Survey offers valuable findings on challenges and aspirations of young Africans as they navigate ever-evolving job market.

One of the key findings of the survey is that 81% of employers in South Africa believe higher education institutions should focus more on partnering with businesses to better prepare graduates for the job market.

This underscores the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in ensuring graduates are equipped with skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce.

Among school leavers in South Africa, nearly a quarter (24%) expressed a desire to work in the technology and software sector.

However, their optimism about finding a job after completing their education is tempered by concerns about a job shortage and a lack of adequate work experience.

The survey also revealed that while employers in South Africa have concerns about the future of the African economy, with only 21% feeling optimistic, school leavers have a more positive outlook, with 40% expressing optimism.

However, South Africa ranked the lowest in terms of students’ optimism about employment opportunities, with only 39% feeling confident about finding a job after completing their education.

Veda Sunassee, CEO of ALU, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between education and workforce demands to empower Africa’s next generation of leaders.

She highlighted the need for higher education institutions to focus on leadership, problem-solving, and building strong links with the business world to prepare graduates for success in the workplace.

The survey also highlighted the importance of practical work experience and soft skills like communication, innovation, and self-management for employers in South Africa.

It recommended that higher education institutions prioritise teaching these skills, align curriculum with career aspirations, and enhance work-based learning opportunities to better prepare graduates for the job market.

Overall, the ALU 2025 Africa Workforce Readiness Survey provides valuable insights that can help shape the future of higher education in Africa and ensure that young Africans are equipped to thrive in the economy of tomorrow.

By addressing the challenges and aspirations of both school leavers and employers, the survey sets a clear path for empowering Africa’s next generation of leaders.