PROGRESSIVE FORCES OF SOUTH AFRICA STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH I AM A PATRIOT AS THEY LAUNCH NATIONAL SKILLS SURVEY TO PRIORITIZE SOUTH AFRICAN WORKERS
By Bonang Sepoloane Fatoki
National organizer of Progressive Forces
In a push to put South African talent first, Progressive Forces of South Africa, has rallied behind the grassroots organization I Am A Patriot, as they launch a nationwide survey to identify South Africans with scarce and specialized skills.
This initiative comes at a critical time, as Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber recently announced plans to prioritize 11,000 foreign nationals with visas for key skilled positions in South Africa.
This decision has sparked concern among local organizations who believe qualified South Africans should be prioritized to fill these roles.
What is the Survey?
The survey aims to build a national database of skilled South Africans across various industries, providing proof that local talent is available to meet the demands of the South African economy.
By collecting data from South Africans with specialized skills, Progressive Forces and I Am A Patriot seek to challenge the government’s stance on hiring foreign nationals for roles that could be filled locally.
The survey will gather information on respondents’ qualifications, specific skill sets, work experience, and industry expertise. With this data, I am a patriot hopes to showcase the wealth of talent that exists within the country and advocate for South Africans to be considered first in employment opportunities, particularly in sectors with a shortage of skilled professionals.
Why Now?
The timing of this survey is crucial.
Minister Schreiber’s proposed visa priorities for foreign workers comes as unemployment rates among young South Africans has reached an alarming 33,5% .
Many local professionals, even those with years of experience and relevant qualifications, struggle to find work due to increased competition with foreign nationals.
The survey aims to provide the government with evidence that there is no need to look abroad for talent, as local citizens possess the necessary skills to fill these roles.
How Can You Participate?
Progressive Forces and I Am A Patriot are calling on all South Africans with scarce skills or specialized knowledge to participate in this survey.
By sharing your qualifications and experience, you contribute to a powerful movement advocating for South Africans to secure their rightful place in the job market.
To join the survey and help make a difference, please click on the following link and submit your information:
➡️ Fill out the Skills Survey Here: https://survey.imapatriot.co.za/zs/rzClKE
Who is Leading the Initiative?
This initiative is spearheaded by I Am A Patriot supported by Progressive Forces of South Africa, two organizations deeply committed to safeguarding South African employment rights.
Progressive Forces is a coalition of civic groups and individuals dedicated to advocating for fair employment practices, while I Am A Patriot is a grassroots movement focused on national pride and empowerment of South African citizens through media and quality South African centric eesearch.
Where Will This Data Go?
All data collected will be used solely for advocacy purposes, aimed at demonstrating the availability of local talent to government bodies and relevant stakeholders.
The database will serve as a resource to show that there are qualified South Africans available for roles currently being offered to foreign nationals.
I am a patriot is committed to ensuring the confidentiality of all respondents, using the data only in its efforts to promote fair hiring practices.
When Will This Information Be Used?
These two organizations plan to use this data immediately to influence government policy on skilled worker visas and immigration employment practices.
The collected data will be presented to government departments, including the Department of Home Affairs, as part of an appeal to reconsider prioritizing foreign nationals when capable South Africans are seeking employment.
Why It’s Important to Share This Link
By participating in and sharing this survey, you are directly contributing to a movement that seeks to prioritize South African workers and ensure that our own citizens are at the forefront of job opportunities.
With collective support, we can show that South Africa’s workforce is more than capable of meeting the demands of our economy without relying heavily on foreign labor.
This is a call to action for all South Africans who want to see their fellow citizens given fair access to employment opportunities. Join us in standing up for South African skills and help build a future where local talent is always prioritized.
Let’s build this database, showcase our skills, and make our voices heard!!!
#Unitedforchange #SouthAfricaforSouthAfricans