A digital transformation investment of R5million at UJ
This investment comes as a way to aid in the development of the skills needed for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s Johannesburg Business School (JBS) and the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (Chieta) have joined forces in an innovative research project to that aims to address the critical skills development needs of the nation.
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This partnership is described as one that aims to enhance research capabilities and foster innovation, ensuring both short and long-term solutions in a country where skills shortage is stark. Of utmost importance is equipping the youth with essential 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) and digital skills to future-proof careers and drive the country’s development agenda. At the core of this collaboration is the establishment of the Chieta/UJ JBS Centre for Digital Transformation, backed by the Chieta research chair’s substantial investment of R5 million. This initiative highlights the steadfast commitment of UJ and Chieta to spearhead digital transformation efforts across South Africa.
Arnesh Telukdarie, a Professor of Digital Business at UJ, and head of the centre, highlighted the centre’s mission, stating, “We aim to accelerate digitalisation within the chemicals sector by providing support and fostering rural and peri-urban development, while also aiding large and medium-sized businesses.” He pointed out that while the centre’s primary focus is on the chemical sector, its impact is set to extend to broader economic sectors in South Africa. “Our overarching goal is to position South Africa as a global leader in digital transformation, aligning closely with national development objectives.”
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In addition, Yershen Pillay, CEO of Chieta, added that the new impactful partnership is to cultivate more doctoral graduates, thereby fortifying South Africa’s research economy and fostering innovation. “This initiative will go a long way in bridging the global digital innovation divide. We are proud to collaborate with an institution that produces more research outputs than any other university in the country. We look forward to the new transformation initiatives on skills development and sustainable livelihoods from this Centre,” said Pillay.
The research project will focus on research objectives that include Virtual Reality, Business Intelligence, Skills Forecasting, Grants Management Systems, Business Process, Skills Development, Tvet, Rural Development and SME among others.
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