From Skilling to Career Growth Support: The Case for Supporting Skilling Beneficiaries

The Job Plus plus remains invested in finding ways to multiply and sustain the skilling impact, ensuring beneficiaries are equipped not just for their first job but for a lifetime of opportunities.

The journey of skilling does not end when a beneficiary is employed; it is a long-term commitment to fostering sustainable careers and empowering individuals. For skilling beneficiaries, particularly those who may not yet hold a formal graduate degree or have access to advanced upskilling opportunities, continued support is crucial. Here’s why:

1. True Impact Beyond Placement and Job Numbers

Our skilling programs aim to create an employable workforce. However, beneficiaries who complete a year in their roles often find themselves at a crossroads. Without further guidance or up-skilling, they risk stagnating in their current roles, which can lead to regression or instability as they seek other options. Reaching out to those placed, who may have thought their support ended with their deployment, presents us (The Job Plus) an opportunity to extend that support further. By expanding this "blanket" to include guidance, scholarship options for further education, and opportunities for upskilling, we can empower beneficiaries to achieve even greater success. This is a concept we are weaving into the conversation, a thread that could unravel a path to deeper, lasting impact.

2. Retention Boost

Employers invest significant resources in skilling, onboarding and then again training new employees on the job. Supporting them beyond this point creates a positive cycle where retention, productivity, and morale flourish.

• Cost Efficiency: Retaining trained employees minimizes recruitment and onboarding costs for employers.
• Workforce Stability: Experienced employees bring consistency and reliability to the organization, contributing to smoother operations.
• Increased Productivity: Employees who feel supported are more likely to be motivated and perform at their best, driving organizational success.

4. Resilient Workforce

Industries are evolving rapidly, and roles that are relevant today may not exist tomorrow. Supporting skilling beneficiaries with continuous learning prepares them to adapt to changing market demands, making them more resilient in the face of uncertainty.

Example:

For instance, a food and beverage associate trained under a skilling program can be upskilled in digital inventory management or customer relationship tools, enhancing their value to employers.

5. Ripple Effect

When a skilling beneficiary grows, he or she inspires their communities and peers. By supporting their ongoing journey, we can contribute to a larger social impact, encouraging others to participate in skilling initiatives.

• Retention Boost: Studies show that investing in continuous employee development experience up to 50% higher retention rates.
• Increased Earning Potential: Employees who participate in upskilling programs can see salary increases ranging from 10% to 30%.
• Community Impact: Every upskilled individual impacts at least five others in their immediate community, creating a ripple effect of growth and development.

The conversation around skilling does not end with placement—it begins there. To create a future-ready workforce and drive sustainable change, we invite thought leaders, industry partners, and changemakers to collaborate in scaling and sustaining the impact of skilling initiatives. By sharing insights, co-creating opportunities, and fostering innovation, we can collectively unlock the true potential of every beneficiary.

Let’s work together to empower individuals, transform industries, and inspire communities. Reach out to explore how we can shape a more inclusive and resilient future, one skill at a time.