RS South Africa, a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1) and a leading provider of industrial product and service solutions reaffirms its commitment to empowering young people with the technical and digital skills essential for shaping the industries of tomorrow as World Youth Skills Day 2025 is celebrated on 15 July. With this year’s global theme, ‘Youth Empowerment Through AI and Digital Skills’, RS South Africa is proud to showcase the work it is doing to build a future-ready generation.
According to Wesley Hood, Education and Social Impact Specialist, the country’s industrial and electronics components sector is facing critical skills shortages, particularly in hands-on technical experience. “A lot of young people know the theory but have not had the chance to actually work with real tools or systems,” says Hood. “When we do not have skilled people, it holds everything back, from productivity to innovation and economic growth.”
Emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, IoT, and 3D printing are rapidly reshaping the industrial landscape, driving a growing demand for digital fluency and practical engineering skills. RS South Africa is responding by investing in youth-focused education programmes, technical training initiatives, and strategic academic partnerships.
Key initiatives include the RS Student Project Fund to support students with funding and technical guidance to bring engineering projects to life. In 2025, a record 69 applications were received, with 13 exceptional projects selected in fields such as automation, sustainability, and robotics.
The Future Mobility Lab at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) is a world-class facility launched with RS support, enabling students to explore cutting-edge technologies in transport and mobility.
Super Skills Workshops focus on developing both technical and soft skills, including communication, personal branding, leadership, and problem-solving, crucial for success in the modern workplace. In terms of campus roadshows and equipment donations, RS engages with institutions across South Africa, hosting events, donating laboratory equipment, and offering mentorship that bridges the gap between education and industry.
“We work closely with lecturers, curriculum designers, and education teams to make sure students gain job-ready skills. It is not just about knowing the theory, it is about being able to apply it in the real world,” says Hood.
RS South Africa also promotes youth engagement through platforms like RS DesignSpark, giving students free access to digital design software and engineering resources. These tools, alongside automation kits and coding platforms, help young innovators move from passive learning to active creation.
Beyond technical ability, RS South Africa recognises the importance of resilience, adaptability, and teamwork. “Tech skills are crucial, but attitude is everything. The ability to collaborate, solve problems, and communicate effectively is what helps young people thrive,” adds Hood.
His message to South African youth on this important day is simple: “Keep pushing. You do not have to know it all, just be willing to learn. The world needs young people who are ready to build, create, and lead. You have got this.”
RS South Africa encourages students and aspiring engineers to connect, collaborate, and innovate. With the right support and access to opportunity, the next generation has the power to transform industries and drive South Africa forward.
