An analysis of small business skills in the City of Tshwane, Gauteng province

Abstract

Small businesses receive much attention in South Africa as vehicles that stimulate economic growth and development. Evidence shows that high levels of unemployment and poverty exist; small business owners and managers have limited skills, capabilities and knowledge; while low levels of education persists. This paper focuses on the technical and conceptual skills of small businesses in the City of Tshwane, Gauteng Province, South Africa. Respondents were selected from nine economic sectors, representing a sample of 270. Data processing and analysis were done by the Bureau of Market Research, University of South Africa. Chi-square tests show a significant association between the business sector and type of skills possessed. Technical skills are high in all sectors, while conceptual skills lack in most sectors. Small business owners and managers are advised to participate in various initiatives to enhance the level of conceptual skills in particular.