Careers on the Rise in 2025: The Top 10 Jobs You Should Train For in South Africa
it’s getting insanely tough to find a job in Mzansi, especially if you’re young and don’t have a degree. But the good news is that some careers are growing fast. The World Economic Forum (WEF) says millions of new jobs are being created around the world, even in South Africa.
In this article I will show you the top 10 jobs that are growing in 2025, why they matter, and how you can start training for them – even if you don’t have money for university.
What the WEF 2025 Report Says
The WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025 says big changes are coming:
- 170 million new jobs will be created around the world by 2030
- 78 million of those jobs will come from tech, green energy, and health
- South Africa is part of this change, but only if we close the skills gap
- Many companies are hiring for skills, not just degrees
So if you can learn the right skill, you can build a real future.
Top 10 Fast-Growing Jobs in South Africa for 2025
Here are the careers you should be looking at, according to the WEF:
1. AI and Machine Learning Specialists
Why it’s growing: More companies are using artificial intelligence (AI) to do smart tasks. They need people to build and run these systems.
Skills needed: Python, data science, machine learning
Where to study:
Salary: R25,000 to R70,000 per month (experienced roles)
2. Data Analysts and Big Data Experts
Why it’s growing: Businesses want to understand data so they can make better decisions.
Skills needed: Excel, SQL, Power BI, data cleaning
Where to study:
- IBM SkillsBuild
- FutureLearn
- TVET Colleges with ICT streams
Salary: R15,000 to R50,000 per month
3. Software and App Developers
Why it’s growing: Every business needs an app or a website. Software runs everything now.
Skills needed: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python
Where to study:
Salary: R20,000 to R70,000 per month
4. Renewable Energy Technicians and Engineers
Why it’s growing: Solar, wind, and green energy are expanding. South Africa needs people to install and fix green systems.
Skills needed: Electrical work, solar panel training, engineering basics
Where to study:
- TVET College
- GreenCape
- Coursera – Solar Energy Basics
Salary: R12,000 to R40,000 per month
5. Cybersecurity Experts
Why it’s growing: Hacking and data theft are big problems. Companies need people to protect their systems.
Skills needed: Network security, risk analysis, coding
Where to study:
- Cisco Networking Academy
- Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate – Coursera
- MICT SETA learnerships
Salary: R20,000 to R60,000 per month
6. Sustainability and Climate Specialists
Why it’s growing: More companies are working to protect the environment. They need staff who understand climate risks.
Skills needed: Environmental science, reporting, communication
Where to study:
Salary: R18,000 to R50,000 per month
7. UX/UI Designers
Why it’s growing: Apps and websites need to look good and work well. These designers help improve how users interact with tech.
Skills needed: Adobe XD, Figma, basic design, customer focus
Where to study:
Salary: R15,000 to R45,000 per month
8. Digital Marketing Specialists
Why it’s growing: Businesses want to sell online. They need people to handle social media, emails, and online ads.
Skills needed: Facebook Ads, Google Analytics, SEO
Where to study:
- Google Digital Garage
- Digify Africa
- Red & Yellow School
Salary: R12,000 to R40,000 per month
9. Project Managers (Tech and Green Sectors)
Why it’s growing: Companies need someone to keep projects on time and on budget.
Skills needed: Planning, leadership, MS Project, Excel
Where to study:
- PMI South Africa
- Coursera – Project Management
- TVET Colleges and Management short courses
Salary: R20,000 to R60,000 per month
10. Delivery and Logistics Drivers (Light Vehicles)
Why it’s growing: More people order things online, so we need more drivers.
Skills needed: Driving license, GPS, customer service
Where to study:
- TVET Colleges with transport/logistics programs
- Learnerships through YES or MICT SETA
- Private delivery companies like Takealot and Checkers Sixty60
Salary: R5,000 to R15,000 per month (entry level)
Skills You’ll Need for These Jobs
- Basic computer and tech skills
- Communication and teamwork
- Problem solving
- Being able to learn fast
- Green economy awareness
- Customer service
These are the skills most employers want, even more than a degree sometimes.
SEE: Jobs that are Disappearing in South Africa
You Don’t Have a Degree? You Can Still Get In
According to the WEF report, many employers now care more about skills than degrees. About 1 in 3 companies in South Africa plan to remove degree requirements for some roles.
That means if you learn the right skill (even online) you can still get hired.
How to Start Training Now (Even for Free)
Here are trusted places to begin:
- SAYouth.mobi – Free local training and job links
- Coursera.org – Certificates from top universities
- ExploreAI Academy – Data and tech skills
- LinkedIn Learning – Free with library cards
- Google Skills for Africa
- Digify Africa – Free marketing and digital skills
Can’t Qualify Yet? Here’s What to Do
If you’re not ready for some of the jobs above:
- Take a short online course
- Do a free trial on Coursera or FutureLearn
- Visit your nearest TVET College
- Try a learnership or internship program
- Join WhatsApp groups that share job and training info
Final Thoughts
The world is changing. Jobs are changing. If you learn now, you can be ready for the future.
Pick one skill. Start small. Use free tools. Keep going.
Your future is in your hands.
