In the modern workforce, the demand for skills in emerging technologies has rapidly increased. Industries ranging from finance and healthcare to manufacturing and retail are becoming increasingly dependent on new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), blockchain, and automation. While technological advancement is driving productivity and efficiency, it also presents a crucial opportunity to address a broader social issue: inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce.

South Africa, like many other countries, faces the dual challenge of promoting economic growth while simultaneously addressing unemployment and socio-economic inequalities. A key demographic often overlooked in this equation is individuals with a disability. Empowering this group by equipping them with in-demand skills in emerging technologies offers a way to not only enhance their livelihoods but also stimulate long-term economic benefits for the country as a whole.

According to the Commission for Employment Equity, only 1.2% of employees tend to be people with disabilities, even among the most transformative businesses in South Africa. Tabea Kabinde, the Chairperson of the Commission for Employment Equity (CEE), has gone on record asking South African businesses not to overlook persons with a disability, arguing that real transformation makes business sense.

Business leaders and decision makers need to recognise the untapped potential that exists within the disability community and take proactive steps to integrate them into the workforce.

The current state of disability and employment in South Africa

The unemployment rate in South Africa is one of the highest in the world, and among people with disabilities, the situation is even more dire. As the CEE’s data reveals, only a small fraction of individuals with disabilities are employed in formal sectors, and those who are employed often face significant barriers to career growth and development. Despite the introduction of progressive policies and incentives aimed at encouraging the hiring of disabled workers, the employment gap remains.

Business leaders must rethink their approach to workforce development and diversity. Failing to invest in the inclusion of people with a disability not only perpetuates inequality but also results in a missed opportunity for businesses to leverage the unique talents and perspectives of this underrepresented group. In a competitive global economy, diversity, particularly cognitive and experiential diversity, has been proven to drive innovation, creativity, and better decision-making within companies.

The question then becomes: How can the skills gap for people with disabilities be bridged in ways that provide value to both individuals and businesses? The answer lies in emerging technologies.

Leveraging emerging technologies to empower people with disabilities

According to the report, Profiling the socio-economic status and living arrangements of persons with disabilities in South Africa, 2011-2022, assistive devices enable persons with disabilities to pursue education, training, and access employment opportunities.

Advancements in technology have provided more options for assistive devices, which in turn improve the chances of job opportunities and career access for persons with a disability.

At I Can, we know that technology can do even more. Emerging technologies present an opportunity to level the playing field for people with disabilities. Whether it’s through remote work, assistive technologies, or specialized training in fields such as cybersecurity, coding, and data analysis, technology can make meaningful employment accessible to those who might otherwise face significant physical or logistical barriers.

1. One of the key advantages of the technology-driven economy is the rise of remote work. People with disabilities, particularly those with mobility issues, have historically been disadvantaged by the need to physically access traditional workplaces. Emerging technologies now allow for telecommuting, virtual collaboration, and flexible work arrangements that mitigate these challenges. This shift opens the door for businesses to recruit disabled individuals without the need to modify physical office spaces significantly.
2. Advancements in assistive technologies, such as speech-to-text software, screen readers, and adaptive devices, allow people with a disability to engage fully in the digital economy. With the right accommodations, people who are blind, deaf, or have mobility impairments can perform tasks that were previously considered beyond their reach. Business leaders should look beyond traditional disability accommodations and explore cutting-edge tools that enable greater productivity and independence for disabled employees.
3. Another critical element in empowering workers with a disability is providing access to training in high-demand tech skills. Industries are increasingly looking for employees who are adept at coding, data management, and digital marketing. By providing individuals with a disability access to programs that teach these skills, businesses can cultivate a talent pool that is not only diverse but highly competitive. Many people with disabilities already possess the resilience, problem-solving skills, and creativity required to excel in these roles—qualities that can be sharpened with the right training in emerging technologies.

Long-term benefits for the South African economy

Investing in the technological training and integration of people with disabilities into the workforce isn’t just a matter of corporate social responsibility. It’s a sound economic strategy. A more inclusive workforce can stimulate economic growth in several key ways:

1. Addressing the skills shortage: South Africa, like many other nations, is grappling with a shortage of workers who possess skills in emerging technologies. This gap represents a significant challenge for businesses looking to remain competitive in the global market. By tapping into the disabled workforce, South Africa can develop a new generation of skilled workers who are capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
2. Boosting economic participation: When people with disabilities are equipped with the skills needed to secure stable, high-paying jobs, their economic participation increases. This leads to higher consumer spending, which in turn drives demand for goods and services. As individuals with a disability gain financial independence, they contribute to broader economic growth and help reduce poverty levels.
3. Reducing dependence on social services: Currently, many people with disabilities in South Africa rely on social grants and public assistance to meet their basic needs. While these programs provide necessary support, they are not a long-term solution to economic inequality. By integrating people with a disability into the workforce, the country can reduce the financial strain on social services and direct those resources toward other critical areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
4. Enhancing corporate competitiveness: Businesses that embrace diversity and inclusion tend to outperform their peers. Studies have shown that diverse teams are more innovative and produce better outcomes. By actively recruiting, training, and retaining employees with disabilities, companies can enhance their competitiveness on the global stage. This, in turn, will attract more foreign investment and create a more robust and resilient economy.

Encouraging business leaders to take action

The journey to creating an inclusive workforce requires intentional effort from business leaders. It is not enough to wait for government policies or social programs to drive change. Instead, businesses must take the lead by developing and implementing strategies to recruit, train, and retain people with disabilities. These strategies should include:

• Inclusive hiring practices that actively seek out candidates with a disability.
• Investments in training programs that focus on emerging technologies, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are equipped with the skills needed for the future of work.
• Collaborations with disability advocacy groups and educational institutions to create pipelines for talent.
• Creating supportive workplace environments that not only accommodate but also celebrate diversity.

By taking these steps, businesses can ensure that individuals with disabilities are not left behind in the technological revolution. More importantly, they can position themselves as leaders in the movement toward a more equitable and prosperous South African economy.

How I CAN helps

I CAN is dedicated to empowering South Africans with disabilities by offering comprehensive training and skills development that align with the needs of the digital economy. Our programs focus on providing individuals with a disability access to high-quality education in fields such as information technology, coding, and digital literacy. This not only prepares them for gainful employment in industries that are increasingly reliant on technology, but also enhances their confidence and independence.

We work closely with businesses, supporting them in creating inclusive workplaces. We offer solutions for integrating employees with disabilities, from ensuring accessible work environments to helping businesses comply with disability employment equity targets. I CAN also helps businesses tap into the talents of individuals with a disability, driving home the point that a more inclusive workforce can lead to better innovation, creativity, and overall business success.

By partnering with I CAN, businesses can contribute to economic transformation while fulfilling their corporate social responsibility initiatives. In the long term, this will support the South African economy by increasing employment opportunities for individuals with a disability and fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce.