South African Businesses Overestimate AI Accuracy — Why Excel Skills Still Matter More Than Ever
Written by: Arnold Muscat Save to Instapaper
Durban, April 13, 2026 South African Businesses Overestimate AI Accuracy — Why Excel Skills Still Matter More Than Ever
As artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot become more common in South African workplaces, a critical gap is emerging: employees are relying on AI-generated outputs without the necessary skills to verify them.
While AI can dramatically improve productivity, it does not guarantee accuracy.
“AI produces language — not truth,” says Arnold Muscat, Director of College Africa Group (CAG), a corporate training provider specialising in Excel, data analysis, and workplace AI skills. “This is one of the most important lessons businesses need to understand before integrating AI into decision-making processes.”
The Hidden Risk In AI Adoption
Many organisations assume that AI tools:Provide correct answersInterpret data accuratelyReplace the need for technical skills
In reality, AI systems:Generate responses based on patterns, not factsCan produce confident but incorrect outputsDo not validate or verify data
“In finance and HR environments, even small AI-generated errors can result in incorrect reporting, compliance issues, or reputational damage,” adds Arnold Muscat.
Without proper oversight, this can lead to:Incorrect financial reportingPoor business decisionsCompliance and audit risks
Why Excel Skills Are More Critical Than Ever
Despite the rise of AI, Excel remains the backbone of business data analysis.
Professionals still need to:Validate AI-generated outputsAnalyse datasets independentlyBuild structured, reliable reportsApply formulas and logic correctly
“AI can assist — but Excel skills ensure accuracy,” says Arnold Muscat. “In many cases, AI actually increases the need for strong Excel and data analysis skills.”
The Real Opportunity AI And Excel Together
The most effective organisations are not choosing between AI and Excel — they are combining them.
This includes:Using AI to draft formulas or explain functionsApplying Excel to test and validate outputsBuilding workflows that balance speed with accuracy
“This is where businesses create real value — combining AI efficiency with human verification,” explains Arnold Muscat.
A Growing Skills Gap In South Africa
As AI adoption accelerates, many employees are:Using AI tools without formal trainingOver-relying on outputs without verificationLacking confidence in interpreting results
“There is a clear gap between using AI and using it correctly,” says Arnold Muscat.
Supporting Responsible AI Use In The Workplace
College Africa Group (CAG) offers corporate training programmes designed to help teams use AI effectively and responsibly, including:AI in the Workplace (governance, risks, and responsible use)ChatGPT for Business (practical productivity applications)Advanced Excel Training (data analysis and validation skills)
“Our focus is practical application — helping teams use AI tools while maintaining accuracy, compliance, and accountability,” adds Arnold Muscat.
Conclusion
AI is a powerful tool — but without the skills to validate its outputs, it introduces risk rather than value.
For South African businesses, the future is not AI or Excel. It is AI with Excel.
Media Contact
College Africa Group (CAG)📞 +27 (0) 83 778 4903📧 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.🌐 https://www.collegeafricagroup.com
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We SETA accredited, BEE Level 2 & offer classroom on-site & virtual Microsoft Office, MS Project & other training to many corporate and professionals across South Africa. Due to COVID-19 we no longer have permanent offices, but hire, onsite or virtual training is offered
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