The Services SETA has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming South Africa’s real estate sector by investing in skills development initiatives that align with industry demands and national economic priorities.
Speaking at the Real Estate Youth Summit held at the GIBS Business School, Services SETA representative Emma Mbele emphasized the critical role that industry-driven training programmes play in creating sustainable career opportunities for young South Africans.
Services SETA Aligns Funding With Industry Needs
According to Mbele, Services SETA’s funding decisions are informed by its annual Sector Skills Plan, a strategic framework developed through ongoing engagement with employers, industry bodies, training providers, and other stakeholders.
“Services SETA is committed to supporting the growth and transformation of the real estate sector through skills development funding that responds to industry needs, research and national priorities. Our funding decisions are guided by the Sector Skills Plan, which is updated annually through consultation with industry stakeholders. This ensures that the skills challenges, opportunities and future needs of the sector are properly reflected,” said Mbele.
This approach helps ensure that funding is directed toward qualifications, learnerships, internships, and workplace training opportunities that address actual skills shortages within the real estate industry.
Real Estate Sector Presents Opportunities for Youth
South Africa’s property and real estate sector continues to offer a range of career pathways, including:
- Property management
- Real estate sales
- Property valuation
- Facilities management
- Property development
- Real estate administration
- Compliance and regulatory services
- Property investment advisory services
However, access to industry-specific training and workplace experience remains a challenge for many young people entering the sector.
By funding targeted skills development programmes, Services SETA aims to reduce barriers to entry while supporting transformation and inclusivity within the industry.
Why Skills Development Matters
Industry experts at the summit highlighted that employers increasingly seek candidates with both formal qualifications and practical workplace experience.
Skills development initiatives funded by Services SETA can help young people gain:
- Accredited qualifications
- Workplace exposure
- Industry-recognised certifications
- Professional networking opportunities
- Improved employability prospects
These interventions not only benefit job seekers but also contribute to building a skilled workforce capable of supporting growth in South Africa’s property market.
Supporting Transformation in the Property Industry
The real estate sector has been identified as one of the industries with significant potential to contribute to economic growth, entrepreneurship, and employment creation.
Services SETA’s continued investment in youth-focused programmes forms part of broader national efforts to promote economic inclusion and ensure that historically underrepresented groups can access opportunities within the sector.
Through partnerships with employers, professional bodies, and training institutions, the SETA seeks to create pathways that enable young South Africans to participate meaningfully in the property economy.
Looking Ahead
As demand for skilled professionals in the property industry evolves, the alignment between industry needs and skills development remains essential. Services SETA’s emphasis on evidence-based funding and stakeholder engagement reflects a growing recognition that workforce development must be responsive to changing market realities.
For young South Africans interested in pursuing careers in real estate, initiatives supported by Services SETA may provide valuable opportunities to acquire relevant skills, gain workplace experience, and build long-term careers in one of the country’s key economic sectors.
Source
Statement by Emma Mbele, Services SETA Representative, delivered during the Real Estate Youth Summit at GIBS Business School regarding skills development funding, the Sector Skills Plan, and youth participation in the real estate sector.
Editorial Note: This article is based on remarks made during the Real Estate Youth Summit and aims to provide readers with information on skills development initiatives affecting South Africa’s real estate industry. Readers are encouraged to consult official Services SETA communications for programme-specific announcements and funding opportunities.
