– by Noluthando Makhaza
As the world of work is undergoing a major process of change, from the third to the forth industrial revolution, government and private companies are tasked with a huge responsibility to facilitate change in the workplace and various communities. In order to understand and respond effectively to these new challenges, Mr. Sifiso Nxumalo (Business Day: July 2019) stated that:
“The South African government needs to speed up internet access by facilitating a comprehensive telecoms reform by fully implementing its ICT policies, a regulatory system and quickly releasing spectrum by creating a wholesale open-access network that has a clear shareholding, funding, decision-making, and operating model”.
Reverberating Sifiso’s sentiments at our recent Business Breakfast in Vryheid, our guest speaker, Dr. Sonny Ako-Nai facilitated the session themed around the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This was our second stop on the National Roadshow Campaign. Our attendees represented various companies from private and public sectors around the Vryheid region. With such thought-provoking discussions, by the end of the session, delegates felt the need to learn new skills so that they remain relevant in this ever changing world coupled with new possibility. “The challenge is not only about learning a new skill, however, being able to adapt to change requires a whole new mind-set, where one has to learn, unlearn and relearn in order to survive” – said one of the delegates.
Vryheid has a viable economic structure reliant on farming, mining, timber and small industry. The diverse population ensures exposure to many traditions and cultures with a blend of Zulu, Afrikaans, German, English and European cultures. It is also an important link in the railway line from the eastern Mpumalanga coalfields to the ore and bulk cargo port of Richards Bay on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. We are certainly looking forward to providing skills training to Vryheid-based companies, while contributing positively towards the development of our communities.
Our next Roadshow stop will be in East London, Eastern Cape. For more info on our Roadshow campaign, please contact our Marketing and Sales Manager:
Mrs. Nashlene Maharaj
T: +27 31 260 1234
