The Media Information Communication and Technologies Sector Education Training Authority (MICT SETA), in partnership with the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), proudly presented the inaugural 4IR Research Symposium and Expo from 25-26 October 2024, at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall. This significant event marked a bold step forward for South Africa’s research landscape, diving deep into the opportunities and challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Themed “Impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Future Skills,” the symposium focused on the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future workforce. The aim was to broaden access to cutting-edge research and accelerate innovations that boost productivity and operational efficiency across various sectors. Discussions centred on how these advancements can enable South Africa to maintain a competitive edge in the global economy by fostering a dynamic, forward-thinking approach to skills development.

The event showcased a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Dr Simphiwe Nelana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation, and Internationalisation at VUT; Professor Mandlakhe Radebe, Chairperson of VUT Council; Ms Natalie Nelson, Acting CEO of MICT SETA; Mr Simphiwe Thobela, Chairperson of the MICT SETA Board; Professor Owolawi Pius, Research Chair at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT); and other prominent Research Chairs from leading universities.

Dr Simphiwe Nelana opened the symposium by inviting attendees to engage with his office on matters related to research and innovation, setting a collaborative tone for the event. Professor Mandlakhe Radebe, in his welcoming address, celebrated the launch of the 4IR Research Chair and symposium, emphasising the alignment with VUT’s 2033+ strategic plan. He noted that AI’s rapid integration into daily life is reshaping the global workforce and called for a focus on preparing South Africans for highly skilled occupations that can adapt to change. As an institution shaping future-ready skills, VUT is committed to producing knowledge that aligns with the demands of the evolving job market.

Ms. Natalie Nelson, Acting CEO of MICT SETA, delved into the origins of the MICT research chairs projects, encouraging attendees to embrace the spirit of discovery and prepare for the complexities of the 4IR era. Her message highlighted the need for skills to navigate the unknown and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

Delivering a keynote address, Mr Simphiwe Thobela, Chairperson of the MICT SETA Board, stressed the importance of positioning South Africa as a global competitor in 4IR. He advocated for hackathons and symposiums to cultivate world-class skills and cutting-edge trends, noting that research chairs are pivotal in integrating technology and research into educational experiences. He reaffirmed MICT SETA’s leadership in driving innovation and creating opportunities for all South Africans.

Professor Owolawi Pius of TUT urged attendees to use AI to improve daily life, recognising its potential to simplify tasks and enhance efficiency. His message was a reminder that while AI is a powerful technology, its responsible use is essential for maximising its benefits.

The symposium proceeded on Saturday, October 26, featuring various presentations on various topics, including transformer-based language models, the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on future skills, enablers of digital innovation, and support for technology development and commercialisation.

A highlight of the event was a panel discussion led by Professor Owolawi Pius, joined by Professor Tranos Zuva, VUT research chair, Professor Oludayo Olungbara, DUT research chair, Mr Joseph Ndaba, and Dr Andile Ngcaba from Solcon capital. The panel explored pressing ethical challenges associated with generative AI, significant advancements positioned to influence the future job market, the coexistence of AI and humans, and strategies for businesses to prepare their workforce for this transformative shift.

The symposium’s closing moments featured the official launch of the MICT SETA-VUT 4IR Research Chair, symbolised by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This act represented the establishment of new collaborations and a shared commitment to advancing 4IR technologies through innovative research and partnerships.

This gathering was more than an academic exercise; it reflected the profound impact of AI on society, especially within the South African context. The symposium underscored AI’s crucial role in driving economic growth, social progress, and technological innovation by uniting thought leaders, policymakers, and researchers. The choice of VUT as a partner highlighted a shared vision to push the boundaries of research and skills development in South Africa’s journey through the 4IR era.