Some academics have indicated that the current education system presents challenges to the readiness for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
These challenges, include lack of computer science skills, which are a key part of the revolution. In addition to this, schools and many households lack access to the internet, as well as computers and devices.
The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) General Secretary Mugwena Maluleke explained:
The Three Stream Model which focuses on vocational, occupational, and technical [skills] will be piloted for three years in the schools that is has been introduced to.
Two academics from the University of Johannesburg, Tankiso Moloi and David Mhlanga are of the opinion that teacher competency and reskilling are necessary to successfully prepare learners, as educators will need the skills and tools required to prepare learners for opportunities in 4IR.
Maluleka has admitted that South Africa’s education system might play a role in the youth being unemployed but he has also emphasised that the country’s economy is shrinking and cannot absorb skilled people. He further explains that South Africa inherited an economy that exploits raw materials and then exports it.
This will, in turn, make it impossible for the country to be a manufacturer, nor will the country be able to look at the infrastructure and relevant skills that are needed to build the economy to the relevant sectors.
What Opportunities Does 4IR Present To The Youth?
Inequalities between urban and rural schools exacerbate the issue, with better-resourced schools having an advantage in the digital era.
However, to make use of the opportunities presented by 4IR, improvements in education are necessary.
Efforts are being made to improve skills development on the continent, including financing solutions for tertiary education, promoting digital, technical, and vocational skills development, supporting entrepreneurship, and providing training in cybersecurity.
