Over 370 Tech Teacher Vacancies Leave Gauteng Learners Behind in Coding, Robotics, and IT Skills
In an era where the world is racing ahead into the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Gauteng’s schoolchildren are being left behind, largely due to a critical teacher shortage of technology teachers in the province. A shocking revelation by Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane confirms that hundreds of schools are unable to offer subjects like Coding and Robotics, Computer Applications Technology (CAT), and Information Technology (IT)—putting thousands of learners at a significant disadvantage.
Over 370 Tech Teacher Vacancies Exposed
In a written response to questions posed in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, MEC Chiloane disclosed a dire shortage of qualified educators in crucial digital subjects:
- 300 vacancies for Coding and Robotics teachers
- 36 for Information Technology (IT)
- 35 for Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
This adds up to more than 370 unfilled posts, painting a bleak picture for the province’s ambitions to produce a workforce ready for the digital economy.
Michael Waters, DA Gauteng spokesperson for education, did not mince words:
“This is unacceptable as learners are being left out in preparation for future workplaces that are increasingly reliant on new technology.”
Policy vs. Reality: A Widening Gap
National education policy mandates that coding education begin from Grade R, signalling the importance of early tech literacy. However, Waters argues that the ongoing teacher shortage proves the Gauteng Department of Education is failing to implement this policy.
“If Premier Panyaza Lesufi is serious about growing the technology workforce in Gauteng, his government must start investing in infrastructure gaps and teacher shortages,” said Waters.
Adding to the concern, nearly half of Gauteng’s current teaching workforce is expected to retire within the next decade, making it even more urgent for the province to train and hire the next generation of tech educators.
The Infrastructure Breakdown
Even if teachers were available, many Gauteng schools would still be unable to deliver on the promise of digital education. The reason? Basic infrastructure is missing in many public schools.
A large number of schools:
- Lack computers and tablets
- Operate without internet connectivity
- Are not connected to electricity grids
This creates a situation where even existing tech teachers are unable to fully implement the prescribed curriculum.
“The digital economy continues to accelerate at an ever-increasing speed while Gauteng learners are left behind,” Waters lamented.
A DA-Led Alternative?
According to Waters, the DA would take a more aggressive stance on bridging the education technology gap. The party promises to:
- Prioritise school infrastructure investments
- Expand recruitment and training of tech educators
- Accelerate the roll-out of the Gauteng Broadband Network to connect all public schools to the internet
The vision is clear: no child should be left behind simply because their school lacks a qualified teacher or access to technology.
Final Thoughts
Gauteng, South Africa’s economic powerhouse, must not allow its education system to lag behind. Equipping the youth with critical digital skills is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. The province’s ability to remain competitive in the global economy hinges on whether it can turn this crisis into an opportunity to revamp and digitise its basic education system.
Also read: UJ Launches UJ Digital, Says Goal Is Innovation—Not to Dethrone Unisa in Online Education
