Building a Sustainable Engineering Future: The Collaborative Effort of ECSA and Academic Institutions in Reducing Attrition in the Skills Pipeline

Nonhle Tracey Sibisi; Lehlohonolo Lefalatsa; Sivuyile Jokazi; Josias Mamabolo; Ada Mukanya Dienga; Brenda Nkhumise

doi:10.54337/irspbl-11098

Authors

Nonhle Tracey Sibisi Engineering Council of South Africa
Lehlohonolo Lefalatsa Engineering Council of South Africa
Sivuyile Jokazi Engineering Council of South Africa
Josias Mamabolo Engineering Council of South Africa
Ada Mukanya Dienga Engineering Council of South Africa
Brenda Nkhumise Engineering Council of South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54337/irspbl-11098

Keywords:

Retention, Skills pipeline, Sustainable engineering, Engineering attribution, Engineering coucil of South Africa

Abstract

The engineering profession in South Africa plays a significant role in driving innovation, infrastructure development, and economic growth. However, there is high attrition rate within the engineering skills pipeline which impacts the development of a sustainable engineering workforce in the country. This study aimed to address high attrition rates using a multifaceted approach with the academic institutions and the Engineering Council of South Africa. The study explored the underlying causes of attrition and provided recommendations on how the collaboration between the Engineering Council of South Africa and academic institutions can help reduce these rates. A mixed methods research design was used and data was be collected through qualitative surveys and questionnaires. The sample included n=10 academic staff and n=263 registered engineering candidates. The qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis, while the quantitative data was analysed using SPSS. identified foundational gaps in schooling, especially in mathematics, science, and language proficiency, as critical contributors to attrition. Financial constraints, although not statistically differentiated, were widely recognised as barriers to academic persistence due to limited bursary flexibility and food insecurity. Institutional challenges such as generic support services, insufficient advising, and overstretched staff further contributed to high dropout rates. A recurring theme in the narratives was the call for ECSA to evolve beyond its current compliance-driven role and become a proactive enabler of transformation and socio-academic support. Based on the findings, the study recommends the development of strategies for enhancing the collaboration between ECSA and higher education institutions to foster a more sustainable engineering pipeline.

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