The Impact of Education and Employment on Economic Competitiveness: A Comparative Analysis of South African Provinces

This study examines the economic competitiveness of South Africa’s nine provinces in terms of job creation and the role of education in enhancing economic development. Utilizing data from the 2010–2019 Quarterly Labour Force Survey and GDP Quarterly Estimates per Region Reports, regression and correlation analyses were conducted. Results revealed a significant correlation between education, economic competitiveness and employment in Western Cape, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. These results highlight the importance of investing in education. By prioritizing educational investments in provinces where significant positive correlations have been observed, targeted interventions can effectively drive regional economic development and job growth.