THE USE OF MOBILE PHONES TO ADDRESS AN UNEMPLOYMENT CRISIS: AN EXAMINATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

The deficiencies in the South African education system lead to a populace unprepared for the workforce. This paper proposes that the use of mobile phones - a technology already owned by the vast majority of citizens - can offer an add-on to the education system, ultimately improving its dismal quality and providing tools for adult education at a relatively low cost. To make this argument, this research pays particular attention to the mobile-based tutoring program, Dr. Math, and the MoMaths mobile study guide. The paper then suggests that, once properly trained, South Africans can use their phones to connect with future employers, something that is made possible by mobile applications such as Ummeli. This paper acknowledges the difficulties in finding an easy solution for such a serious problem but maintains that the potential afforded through mobile phone technology coupled with the ability to take advantage of already available resources make this technology a viable option worth further consideration.