Skills ecosystems mapping: An analysis of installation repair maintenance by medium, small and micro-enterprises

Abstract

This article argues that, although skills policies and approaches have been located largely within a neoliberal paradigm, given the reality of African labour markets, a more place-based approach to framing skills development in building local economies is needed. Using the context of installation repair maintenance hubs in four South African townships, this article presents a framework that moves beyond the individual to organisations and systems. It uses skills ecosystem framing to examine the dynamics that underpin the skills needs of medium, small and micro-enterprises in the IRM hubs. By applying skills ecosystems framing, the article explores the interactions between stakeholders. This approach highlights the importance of skills development in building local economies and reflects the way in which it can systemically support economic growth. The article therefore indicates that decontextualised notions of skills and training cannot facilitate local transitions. Using a mixed-methods approach, our research combined qualitative and quantitative data-collection techniques, including interviews and surveys, exposing challenges.