Creator
Tshilidzi Marwala
ProfessorTshilidzi Marwala is the vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Johannesburg and deputy chairperson of the PC4IR.
Digital Shadows: Unveiling the crisis of forced labour in the tech age
Digital ‘slavery’ such as that of content moderators, trainers and data labellers, is insidious, hidden and underpaid
Justice in the digital age: Can AI transform labour dispute resolution?
Using artificial intelligence would address financial burdens, eliminate geographical restrictions and offer agility in conflict resolution – but there are pitfalls such as bias
Technology is a double-edged sword
As the fourth industrial revolution and Covid co-conspire to flip the world of work upside down, technology has the potential to address our inequalities, or deepen them
Investing in innovation will reduce unemployment and poverty
South African inventions that have changed the world are all underpinned by research, development and significant financial backing — to lose this would be tragic
Cooper, the grocery assistant with AI, gives concierge service
The coronavirus pandemic has demonstrated that there is not a part of our lives that will not be affected by the technologies of the fourth industrial revolution.
Leading others in a time of crisis
Like other sectors, higher education should continue to respond optimally to the coronavirus and map out a new path
Artificial intelligence is already responding to our needs
Engineering students are best prepared for the shift in gear, but they will need to learn to change lanes
Walk the talk: Creating the capacity for the fourth industrial revolution
We cannot implement any recommendations without an overarching council to oversee it
Build infrastructure to support the fourth industrial revolution
Technology has the potential to solve many of the country’s social problems such as electricity production and the eradication of pit latrines
Review, amend or create policy and legislation enabling the 4IR
Despite the success of Artificial Intelligence, it needs to be regulated for a number of reasons
Incentivise the adoption of 4IR technologies
With great rewards for bringing new technologies into different sectors will come great opportunities for South Africa’s economy
We need to build data capability in South Africa
A national data centre can be used to improve the state’s delivery of services
Develop the Advanced Manufacturing Institute to increase SA’s competitiveness
The institute should develop products that are applicable to different industries, such as 3D-imaging and self-driving cars
South Africa must have a stake in artificial intelligence technology
The country needs an institute that will be a conduit for AI knowledge to industry, society and government
Building human capital for the fourth industrial revolution
The government, business, labour and civil society must work together to link potential employees to productive and decent jobs