A qualitative investigation into challenges faced by transport sector small micro and medium enterprises in accessing skills development

Abstract

This paper is based on a qualitative investigation into issues and challenges affecting the participation of transport sector small businesses in skills development and training programmes. The findings of the paper are important in terms of informing the development and implementation of skills development interventions aimed at empowering transport small businesses in becoming sustainable, profitable and productive entities that lead to job creation, poverty alleviation and economic growth. Over the last few years, a lot of effort has been put in creating a conducive policy and institutional environment that is supportive of the development and growth of Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) through skills development. This is largely because a significant proportion of businesses in the transportation sector are SMMEs. However, the participation of small businesses in skills development and training programmes has been poor as demonstrated by the number of companies submitting Workplace Skills Plans (WSP) and paying skills levies. This is despite a substantial proportion of the South African national budget being allocated towards skills development and training. This study is aimed at addressing problems faced by small businesses within the transport sector in relation to accessing skills training and associated support.