Digitalisation, the 4IR and the Just Energy Transition (JET) are among the key policy drivers shaping innovation in the South African business sector. Scholars have long characterised the relationship between innovation and skills demand in terms of skills-biased technological change, where the introduction of new technologies requires and, indeed, favours more advanced skilled workers. Conversely, some technological alarmism has emerged in response to the effects of digitalisation, the 4IR and JET, which reflects a legitimate concern about the displacement of skilled and unskilled labour by firms adopting advanced and emerging technologies. In the South African context, characterised by high unemployment and large inequalities in skills levels and attainment despite several interventions, there is not only a skills mismatch in the labour market, but a significant risk of labour market polarisation undermining the achievement of national goals. In this context, reliable evidence is vital.

In this seminar results from an evidence review spanning the thirty-year period 1994 – 2024, are presented. Discussants from government, education and industry will critically engage the findings, to provide insights and ignite discussion with role-players within innovation and skills systems.

Date: 30 September 2025

Time: 10:00 – 12:00

Register to join via Zoom: click here

This seminar is funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSI). The views and opinions expressed therein as well as findings and statements of the seminar series do not necessarily represent the views of the DSI. Please also note that this seminar may be recorded and published on the HSRC podcast channel.

View the programme agenda: