AI Skills Gap in South African Workplaces Is Slowing Real Productivity Gains

Johannesburg, February 19, 2026 - As artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot gain visibility across South African organisations, many leaders are discovering a critical gap. Access to AI is increasing.

Practical workplace readiness is not.

College Africa Group (CAG), a South African corporate training provider specialising in workplace productivity and digital skills, reports that many teams are eager to use AI.

However, foundational Excel, Word and business process skills often remain underdeveloped.

“Most employees want to use AI because they believe it will solve productivity challenges,” says Arnold Muscat, Director at College Africa Group. “But AI produces language, not truth.

Without strong underlying business and data skills, organisations risk creating faster mistakes instead of better outcomes.”

Growing Demand — But Uneven Readiness

Interest in AI tools has accelerated across finance teams, HR departments and administrative functions. At the same time, many organisations remain cautious.

Common concerns include:

• Governance and oversight • Output accuracy • POPIA and data handling • Staff capability gaps • Workflow integration

CAG notes that successful AI adoption depends less on the tool itself and more on structured implementation and workforce readiness.

Practical Workplace Use Is the Priority

South African organisations are moving beyond generic AI demonstrations. The focus is shifting to real business tasks.

Typical use cases include:

• Report structuring
• Email drafting and refinement
• Excel support and formula assistance
• HR communication workflows
• Management reporting preparation
• Document summarisation and review

This reflects a broader market shift toward measurable productivity outcomes.

Customised Training Is Increasing

Most corporate clients no longer view AI training as a one-size-fits-all solution. Programmes are increasingly tailored to organisational context, risk profile and staff capability.

Training can be delivered onsite, virtually or in blended formats.

Responsible AI Remains Central

“AI can be a powerful workplace assistant when implemented correctly,” adds Muscat. “Human responsibility is not delegable. Organisations must build skills, controls and accountability alongside AI adoption.”

Availability

College Africa Group delivers corporate training across South Africa, including Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Programmes are designed for finance teams, HR professionals, managers and decision-makers.

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