6 careers safe from AI takeover

Amid growing concerns over rising unemployment in South Africa, some jobs remain secure from AI takeover, at least for now.

Despite the rapid pace of technological progress, certain careers that rely on essential human qualities are unlikely to be replaced by artificial intelligence anytime soon.

Just this week, it was announced that South Africa’s unemployment rate climbed to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2025. This increase, up from 31.9% in the last quarter of 2024, will have government leaders wringing their hands. But what can you do to secure your future?

JOBS THAT AI CANNOT TAKE AWAY

Here are the six jobs that AI cannot take away from South Africans. So, if you’re leaving school soon and planning your tertiary education, listen up. Your decision now may safeguard your career prospects for decades to come …  

1. TEACHER

Early childhood educators are among the most important jobs that AI cannot take over. Teaching young kids involves patience, emotional intelligence, adaptability and a nurturing quality that is well beyond AI’s remit. Not only to teachers provide critical emotional support, but the best create engaging learning environments for young minds. Sadly, schoolteachers are not well-enough paid in South Africa, but perhaps a growing recognition of their importance in an AI world can drive up wages.

2. THERAPIST/PSYCHOLOGIST

One of the top jobs that AI cannot take away is that of a therapist/psychologist. Key to the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client is human empathy and emotional intelligence. This is something which AI cannot machine-learn or easily replicate. Therapists establish trust through genuine human connection, intuitive understanding of complex emotions, and treatment approaches. Practicing psychologists can earn well over R1.5 million annually.

3. FIRST RESPONDER

Of the jobs that AI cannot take away, these are certainly the most heroic. Train to become a first responder like a firefighter, emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic, and you’ll be employable for life. Of course, they operate in unpredictable environments requiring split-second decision-making and coolness under pressure. These professionals earn anywhere between R650 000 to R900 000 annually depending on their seniority.

4. SKILLED TRADES

Skilled trades workers – or ‘tradies’ as the Aussies like to call them – are doing very well for themselves. And, once again, the role of plumbers, motor mechanics, carpenters, builders, electricians and technicians are jobs that AI cannot take away. The most successful ‘tradies’ might undertake to runn their own businesses in time, too. Expect to earn anywhere between R750 000 to R1.5 million annually.

5. RELIGIOUS LEADER

Religious and spiritual leaders demand moral reasoning and cultural understanding, and that is why it is one of the jobs that AI cannot take away. Faith leaders provide emotional support and counseling during ethical dilemmas. Average salaries are not typically discussed because, for many, a life dedicated to religion is not about materiality. But if you dedicate your life to religion, you’re most likely guaranteed a vocation for life.

6. OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Occupational therapists develop rehabilitation strategies for patients recovering from injuries and/or disabilities. Once again, this is a role that requires physical assistance and empathetic patient interaction. Depending on qualification, these healthcare professionals can earn well into the millions of Rands annually.