Creating AI, machine learning and cybersecurity academies is the way to go
The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) raised questions about skills that are likely to become redundant — more so in the digital world.
Indispensable digital skills not only enable participation in tech-driven manufacturing, retail, and the 5G-embracing mining sector but also position SA as a serious player in these vital industries.
Key skills, particularly for the digital world future, lie in AI, machine learning (ML), and cybersecurity.
The AI revolution is undeniably on us, permeating our lives and reshaping the world of work. AI’s focus on creating intelligent machines that rival human intelligence, combined with ML’s capacity to learn, and improve autonomously, has transformed these technologies into mainstream business tools. These business tools drive revenue growth, enhance efficiency, cut costs, and elevate customer experiences across industries.
Igor Tulchinsky, founder, chair and CEO of WorldQuant, argues in a World Economic Forum piece that while AI brings tremendous potential benefits — from diagnosing illness to predicting earthquakes — the possible disruption from the AI revolution could also be significant.
“As the rate of AI adoption increases, humans are essential to guiding the technology’s implementation and usage of these technologies,” Tulchinsky contends. “Before we can fully embrace this revolution, we have an obligation to reskill our talent to use these technologies effectively, equipping them to succeed in today’s environment.”
Executive estimates suggest that up to 40% of the workforce may require reskilling due to AI or automation implementation in the next three years. This need arises from the diverse skills demanded by people working alongside AI, ranging from technical proficiency to human understanding and adaptability in thinking.
“While this percentage seems daunting, the demands on today’s workforce present a unique and exciting opportunity to empower a new group of people to enter desired, skills orientated jobs in the digital economy,” Tulchinsky says.
In our interconnected world, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical concern for organisations of all sizes in all sectors. The escalating frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks underline the growing demand for professionals equipped with robust cybersecurity skills.
EDUCATION
The skills needed for the digital world inevitably put the spotlight on SA’s education system.
Last week the basic education department announced that the 2023 matrics achieved a national pass mark of 82.9%. While announcing the results, minister Angie Motshekga encouraged those who failed to explore opportunities such as the Second Chance Matric Programme. “There are lots of life chances available,” she said.
However, the minister’s assertions drew mixed reactions on social media. A post that caught my eye on X was by Chris Excel, stating: “Dear Matric 2023. Life is not what it looks like on TV ... going to varsity and getting a job blah blah. Here is our schedule ... 8am — Generations, 8.30am —
Muvhango, 9am — Uzalo, and 9.30am Skeem Saam.”
The post highlights the challenges faced by young South Africans after matric. Many of these young people do not qualify for tertiary education and have little or no prospects of being employed soon.
Regarding employment, the situation is dire for the youth, including university graduates. The graduates — some of them newly qualified doctors — struggle to secure positions at public hospitals.
What should be done to make young people more employable?
“First, we must stop fixating on whether AI will affect our lives and start managing the elements within our control,” Tulchinsky says. “While the ubiquity of AI has caused fear of these technologies overtaking human ability, this is not yet the case — and may never be. Human capital is a much more important asset than ever before.”
The situation presents an opportune time for the government to explore innovative solutions, such as transforming technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges into AI, ML, and cybersecurity academies. The proposed university in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, could for example be repurposed into the country’s first institution dedicated to these critical digital skills.
The state needs a swift, effective strategy to ensure the future wellbeing of our youth.
Without prompt action, the younger generation is at risk of becoming mere observers in a world dominated by AI and ML.
I believe they have no desire to be relegated to relying on the R350 social relief of distress grant. Instead, their aspirations revolve on actively participating in the digital world.