The inaugural Future of Work and Business Conference will take place this week at Freedom Park in Pretoria, bringing together government, industry leaders, innovators and young people to explore the future of employment, technology and economic growth in South Africa.
The two-day conference aims to address how rapid technological advances, artificial intelligence (AI) and changing global labour market trends are reshaping the world of work and business.
Conference Focuses On Future Skills And Innovation
The conference is organised by Enterprise Capital in partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology's Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW) and the Wholesale and Retail SETA.
The event seeks to mobilise collaboration between government, businesses, funding organisations and innovation partners to unlock new economic opportunities through future-ready skills development and technology innovation.
Discussions will focus on creating a competitive and inclusive economy that empowers South Africans, particularly young people, to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the global labour market.
Technology Is Transforming The World Of Work
Rapid developments in artificial intelligence, digital technology, automation and data-driven solutions are changing how businesses operate and how people work.
At the same time, economic, environmental, demographic and geopolitical shifts are creating both challenges and opportunities for workers and employers.
These changes are leading to the creation of new jobs while also transforming or replacing existing roles, making digital skills and innovation increasingly important.
Building Africa's Role In Technology
Conference convener Siyabonga Magadla believes that innovation and technology have become essential drivers of economic growth, productivity and competitiveness.
“We must accept that we live in an era of massive innovation, big data, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, coding, robotics and digital services. We can no longer afford to just be mere consumers of the technology. Africans must play an active role in building and governing technology.
“We must also understand and unpack the moral dilemmas and obligations that come with accessing and using these technologies,” he said.
Key Topics At The Conference
Delegates will engage in discussions on several critical areas shaping the future economy, including:
- Artificial intelligence and technology innovation
- Digital skills development
- The digital economy
- Enterprise digital transformation
- Funding for innovation
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud computing
Youth Month Focus
Taking place during Youth Month, the conference will place a strong focus on empowering young people with the knowledge and skills needed for the future workplace.
Attendees will include:
- Young people in and out of school
- Youth with disabilities
- Entrepreneurs
- Workers and job seekers
- Government representatives
- Business leaders
- Labour organisations
- TVET colleges
- Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
More than 500 delegates are expected to attend the event.
Driving Economic Growth And Job Creation
Organisers hope the conference will produce practical and actionable strategies that support the accelerated adoption of technology and digital solutions across South Africa.
By promoting innovation, future-fit skills and collaboration between key stakeholders, the event aims to contribute to economic growth, job creation and improved opportunities for South Africans in an increasingly digital economy.
