Work-readiness skills in the Fasset Sector

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine the work -readiness skills that are regarded as important by employers and graduates in the Fasset Sector of South Africa. A cross-sectional survey design was used to achieve this objective. Two convenience samples, namely 24 employers and 333 graduates, completed the Work Readiness Skills Scale. This scale was validated as a one-factor model with an alpha coeffcient of 0.88. Oral and written communication, self-discipline, time management, interpersonal skills and teamwork, problem-solving skills and positive work ethic were rated as important skills for securing employment in this sector by employers and graduates alike. In addition, employers valued numeracy skills and motivation, whereas graduates regarded confidence and leadership skills as important. The results have implications for the curriculum design of the Fasset Work Readiness Programme presented to graduates in this industry.