It is 2026: Why are males still favoured in the workplace?
Dr Simphiwe Madikizela says that males are often still seen as more of an asset in the working environment than females
In the year 2026, a growing concern has emerged regarding the continued preference for males over females in the workplace, despite the fact that more women are facing unemployment. According to the latest Stats SA report, youth unemployment has risen from 10.3 million in Q1 to 10.4 million in Q2 of 2026. Dr Simphiwe Madikizela, an economist from Unisa Graduate School of Business and Leadership, highlights that males are often perceived as more valuable assets in the workforce compared to their female counterparts.
He points out that males still earn more for the same job, even though such disparities are contrary to societal norms. Madikizela emphasizes that gender discrimination, though subtle, persists, as some companies prefer males over females with identical qualifications and experience, citing the potential need for maternity leave and child-rearing responsibilities.
Despite being the majority in the population, women remain at the bottom of the employment chain due to their domestic responsibilities and the skills they possess. Madikizela stresses the importance of fulfilling the job market's skill requirements – primarily STEM subjects – and encourages upskilling and entrepreneurial endeavors.
He advocates for employers to prioritize potential and skills over rigid experience requirements, especially in the context of the current industrial revolution. Madikizela encourages the government, private sector, and civil society to collaborate, invest in infrastructure, support SMMEs, and address corruption, crime, and access to funding and markets. He also suggests relaxing labour laws to facilitate business growth and simplify business startups.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
