The Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) scorecard was designed to uplift previously disadvantaged South Africans, but an alarming trend has emerged. Critics argue that B-BBEE skills development initiatives prioritise compliance over addressing genuine business needs and industry skills gaps. This misalignment is a stark irony, considering the B-BBEE scorecard’s original purpose of transformation.

Instead of equipping Black learners and employees with relevant skills to drive business growth and competitiveness, companies focus on ticking boxes to achieve compliance. This approach undermines the very essence of B-BBEE: to transform, empower and upskill. The result is a disconnect between skills development and business needs, leaving Black employees without the skills to advance in their careers.

The irony deepens when considering the skills gap plaguing South Africa’s economy. By neglecting industry-specific skills development, companies miss opportunities to address critical shortages and drive innovation. The B-BBEE scorecard’s original intention – to transform and empower – is lost in a sea of compliance-driven initiatives.

It is time for a shift in focus. Companies must align skills development with business needs, prioritising industry-specific training that benefits companies, the learners and the economy. Only then can B-BBEE fulfil its promise of true transformation and empowerment of the population.

Skills College invites you to contact us if you would like to join forces with us to pursue the intended purpose of B-BBEE Skills Development Expenditure and in so doing, facilitate win-win outcomes for companies participating in B-BBEE campaigns, learners, and the broader population.