What we do

Research & Sector Skills Planning Unit

Driving evidence-based strategies and sector-specific skill development.

Value Proposition

Unit’s Value Proposition

Striving to provide quality in support of the quest to be “Leaders in closing the skills gap”. Committed to informed decision making; sound research methodologies and reliable quantitative and qualitative data.

Overview

Sector Skills Planning is a central feature of the research function at the merSETA.

Research activities undertaken at the merSETA feed into sectoral processes which include activities of the Chambers Unit. The Sector Skills Plan forms part of this process but it is a distinct activity with its own timelines and specific processes in line with guidelines from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

The overall approach to skills planning takes cognisance of the need for a credible mechanism to address the skills development needs of the merSETA sector and to this end it takes into consideration both quantitative and qualitative research methods supported by a competent research team as well as a stakeholder-driven verification process and inputs for all skills planning activities from regional and sub-sectoral perspectives.

Sector Skills Planning

2015 OFO version

2015
2017

Sector Skills Plans

All SSPs from 2012-2023

Regional Sector Skills Plans

All SSPs from 2012-2023

Current Projects

Supply and Demand Study

Completed Projects

Composite Research project 2016;
The Future of Manufacturing (in collaboration with Development Policy Research Unit);
Operation Phakisa skills development roadmap for the Offshore Oil and Gas industry in South Africa 2015 (in collaboration with South African Oil and Gas Alliance); and
Evaluating LNG to Powerskills in South Africa 2015 (in collaboration with South African Oil and Gas Alliance).

Skills Planning Unit

Sector Skills Plans
Regional Sector Skills Plans
Industry Related Projects

Benefits of working with us

Our Value Add

Informed Decision-Making: The unit provides reliable quantitative and qualitative data to support informed decision-making, ensuring that strategies are based on sound research methodologies.
Addressing Skills Gaps: By understanding and analyzing labor market trends, the unit helps identify and address skills gaps and shortages in the manufacturing, engineering, and related services sectors.
Stakeholder Engagement: The unit involves stakeholders in the verification process, ensuring that skills planning activities are aligned with regional and sub-sectoral needs.
Support for Industry Demands: The research conducted helps in developing interventions that meet industry demands, thereby enhancing the relevance and effectiveness of skills development initiatives.
Collaboration with Experts: The unit collaborates with subject matter experts and participates in initiatives led by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), such as the Research Forum on Post School Education and Training (PSET) and the Labour Market Intelligence Partnership (LMIP).

Features

Comprehensive Sector Analysis

Our Research and Sector Skills Planning Unit page provides detailed sector analyses that identify current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the manufacturing, engineering, and related services sectors. These insights guide strategic planning and decision-making.

Labour Market Intelligence

Gain access to valuable labour market intelligence that informs our skills planning initiatives. We analyze workforce demographics, employment patterns, and skills shortages to develop targeted strategies that address industry needs.

Strategic Skills Planning

Learn about our strategic approach to skills planning, which involves aligning educational and training programmes with the demands of the industry. We work to ensure that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to meet future challenges.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Our page highlights the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, including industry leaders, educational institutions, and government agencies. We engage with these partners to gather insights and develop comprehensive skills plans.

Research Publications

Access a wide range of research publications produced by our unit. These documents provide in-depth analyses, policy recommendations, and best practices that support skills development and workforce planning within the sector.

Policy and Strategy Development

Our Research and Sector Skills Planning Unit contributes to policy and strategy development. We provide evidence-based recommendations that inform government policies and industry strategies, ensuring alignment with national and sectoral goals.

FAQs

What is the Sector Skills Plan (SSP)?

The SSP is a strategic document that outlines the skills development needs and priorities for the merSETA sector. It is developed through a comprehensive research process and is updated regularly to reflect changing industry demands.

How does the unit ensure the credibility of its research?

The unit relies on a competent research team and a stakeholder-driven verification process. It also engages with initiatives like the Research Forum on Post School Education and Training (PSET) and the Labour Market Intelligence Partnership (LMIP) to ensure the reliability of its findings.

What methodologies does the unit use for research?

The unit employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. This includes data mining, trend analysis, and collaboration with subject matter experts and initiatives led by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

How does the unit contribute to skills planning?

The unit’s research activities feed into sectoral processes, including the development of the Sector Skills Plan (SSP). This involves a stakeholder-driven verification process and inputs from regional and sub-sectoral perspectives.

What is the main function of the Research & Sector Skills Planning Unit?

The unit is responsible for conducting research and planning to address the skills development needs within the merSETA sector. This includes both quantitative and qualitative research methods to support informed decision-making and reduce skills gaps and shortages.

Research & Sector Skills Planning Unit Manager

Laura Crosby
LCrosby@merseta.org.za

Contact Us

Contact Form Research & Sector Skills Planning Unit

Join the NSDMS Today!

Take the next step in advancing your career and supporting the growth of our industry by registering on the NSDMS. Gain access to essential resources, streamline your skills development processes, and join a community dedicated to building a skilled workforce in the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services Sector. Sign up today and be part of the change!

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