Why a Degree Alone Isn’t Enough for Job Security Anymore

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This interview was initially broadcast on RSG Geldsake in Afrikaans. The following transcript has been translated into English.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: A significant challenge for young people in South Africa is securing jobs, with many facing difficulties even with tertiary qualifications.

The labor market’s need for skills has changed; it now demands more than just theoretical knowledge, creating substantial hurdles for both higher education institutions and students.

Joining us is Dr. Riaan Steenberg, executive director at Eduvos. Welcome, Riaan. How crucial is this issue for tertiary institutions, and what actions are you taking to tackle it?

RIAAN STEENBERG: There has been a significant shift in employers’ expectations from tertiary institutions. The primary change is the realization that a qualification is not enough on its own. There’s a growing perception that degrees have lost some of their value, often regarded as only a baseline requirement.

Nonetheless, at Eduvos, we adopt a different perspective.

While a degree remains essential, employers increasingly value what students can accomplish with that knowledge.

Understanding that not all qualifications have equal weight, we provide students with opportunities for experiential learning throughout their education.

Employers seek candidates who can think critically, communicate well, and leverage technology; often, they are hesitant to make decisions when approached by a typical graduate.

This trend highlights a growing distinction in the quality among various educational providers.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: So, it’s more than just theoretical knowledge. I assume that foundation is always crucial, but its utility is where institutions need to direct their focus. Graduates must be ready to step in and be productive right away.

RIAAN STEENBERG: Exactly. Employers consistently express that although technical knowledge is vital, it isn’t sufficient. They aim for individuals who can learn quickly, tackle problems, communicate effectively, and collaborate well. They want young professionals who take initiative, act ethically, and who don’t wait for guidance.

Digital literacy is also a primary expectation, extending beyond just IT students.

Today, being proficient with data technology and digital processes is essential in fields such as Commerce, Law, Media, Psychology, Finance, and Human Resources.

Employers often look to younger generations to drive their organizations forward, particularly as older generations can struggle to adapt.

At Eduvos, we aim to expose students to real-world scenarios, like case studies, financial assistance, data analysis, and simulations, helping them think and behave like young professionals prior to graduation.

We also integrate artificial intelligence to support human intelligence, encouraging students to use it as a tool while fostering their critical thinking skills.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: Therefore, practical experience holds a far greater significance compared to a conventional university degree. However, providing this real-world exposure at your scale must be quite challenging.

RIAAN STEENBERG: You’re correct, Ryk, and this is an important point.

Many students acquire theoretical knowledge but struggle in the workplace due to a lack of practical application.

Therefore, we emphasize offering practical experiences to help students cultivate judgment, self-confidence, and professional ethics.

They learn that the working world often has no singular correct answer and develop abilities in information analysis, teamwork, and decision-making—even under pressure. This is why our work-integrated learning is essential.

At Eduvos, different faculties facilitate practice-oriented projects, simulations, community initiatives, entrepreneurial ventures, legal clinics, and industry-related assignments.

Our operating model is aligned quarterly, reflecting how businesses function, ensuring that students graduate not just with a certificate but with demonstrable professional competencies.

For example, our legal clinic allows students to help communities address real challenges with professional oversight, exemplifying our operational philosophy across various faculties.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: That must be quite a daunting task, given the need for evolving teaching methodologies and a complete shift in focus. How have you successfully managed this?

RIAAN STEENBERG: It’s vital for higher education institutions to perceive employability not merely as a final goal but as a principle integrated throughout the learning journey. Programs should be structured with the contemporary workplace in mind, targeting the mindset, skills, and professional behaviors students will require as they enter the job market.

We have policies in place for recognizing prior learning, assisting individuals from other institutions to complete their qualifications with us. Our applied learning curriculum includes the development of digital skills, communication methods, ethical judgment, and problem-solving—not just as supplementary elements but as core components of how students learn and are assessed.

We commit significant resources to align with industry standards and create relevant programs. We frequently conduct lectures, simulations, and projects that immerse students in authentic professional environments.

It’s always intriguing to witness a student hear from someone in their field for the first time and then make informed decisions about their future.

However, many only realize post-graduation that their chosen field may not be right for them, which is something we must address.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: How effective is your strategy? What percentage of your graduates find employment?

RIAAN STEENBERG: Our objective is for 70% of students to secure employment by the time they graduate. We know that approximately 10-15% choose to continue their studies, such as pursuing honors or master’s degrees.

Every year, about 20,000 to 25,000 students secure jobs, which is commendable—especially when compared to many other institutions where employment rates may range between 10-15%.

Furthermore, we have been recognized as the top private higher education institution in South Africa for three consecutive years, a recognition endorsed by employers. I’ve heard we are likely to achieve this accolade for the fourth time.

This acknowledgment indicates that employers believe the quality of graduates from Eduvos exceeds that from other institutions.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: Lastly, which faculties perform the best?

RIAAN STEENBERG: Our largest faculty is IT, followed closely by Commerce.

We also offer applied science programs, including biomedical and biotechnical degrees, and our law faculty is our third-largest.

Additionally, we have a traditional Humanities department offering psychology and related subjects, and we are in the process of developing an engineering faculty in the near future, along with plans for an agriculture faculty.

This growth leads to a significant and expanding array of degree offerings. We now also provide postgraduate programs, enabling students to pursue honors, master’s, and PhDs, which were not previously available.

RYK VAN NIEKERK: It appears Eduvos provides a diverse range of study options.

That concludes our discussion. Thank you, Riaan, for your valuable insights. That was Dr. Riaan Steenberg, executive director of Eduvos.