Capacity building as a strategic tool for employment equity implementation in the financial sector

Abstract

Orientation: Employment equity (EE) has gradually seeped into various levels of many organisations, from private to public companies and small to large companies, in both developing and developed countries.

Research purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of capacity building on EE implementation with particular reference to the financial sector.

Motivation for the study: The rise in demand for EE appointees and the lack of skills and reasonable accommodation of these employees in the workplace hamper EE implementation in South Africa. For this reason, a pool of employees from the designated groups remains stuck at the unskilled and semi-skilled skills levels.

Research approach or design and method: This study utilised the exploratory research approach. In addition, the study adopted a quantitative research methodology. A sample size of 172 was considered appropriate for this study and returned usable responses were n = 95.

Main findings: The key findings revealed that capacity building is imperative in promoting the implementation of EE in the workplace. Based on the findings of this study, it is undeniable that improved capacity building is a strong catalyst for executing EE.

Practical or managerial implications: The findings of this study serve as a guide for decision-making and provide advice related to capacity building and implementation of EE to both business leaders and line management.

Contribution or value-addition: The current study contributes new insights and builds the knowledge base on how capacity building influences EE implementation.