KwaZulu-Natal trains hundreds of young people as it moves with speed to survive the fourth industrial revolution
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) has partnered with the University of KwaZulu-Natal to produce hundreds of graduates who are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that the province adapts to the advent of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
As part of this programme, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr Sihle Zikalala will tomorrow (01st March 2019) engage with local economic development and research practitioners who have been trained through the joint skills development programme with UKZN.
This initiative focuses mainly on skilling Local Economic Development specialists that assist municipalities to develop credible spatial development strategies essential to attract investments. Besides UKZN, the department also works with other tertiary institutions to develop pools of adequately qualified personnel to drive the province's economic growth.
An upbeat Mr Zikalala described these programmes as a resounding success, adding that the province was responding well to the challenges and opportunities of the new technology inspired Fourth Industrial Revolution which is also known as the technological revolution.
“As part of the global community that is experiencing the effects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we need to sharpen our approaches in the manner we do things. All of us must be seized with responding to the challenge of producing graduates who are able to compete globally and sustain our growth trajectory. That is why we have decided to fund many students to attain relevant capacities to compete effectively in the global market.”
Mr Zikalala said the province was focusing on advanced manufacturing, innovation, research, development and as well as skills for new job opportunities.
Members of the media are cordially invited to cover the event to witness this interactive session that promises a robust intellectual oriented debate.
Besides respected academics to grace the function, some beneficiaries of these innovative skills development interventions will be sharing their experiences. Amongst them are graduates specialising in diverse fields inclusive of the Aeronautical Engineering expected to contribute to the province's determination to build an aviation inspired urban development precinct, the Aerotropolis around King Shaka International Airport.
Mr Zikalala’s engagement with graduates, including interns will take place as follows:
Date: 1 March 2019
Venue: Joosab Hall, UKZN Westville Campus
Time: 2pm
Enquiries:
Boyce Mntambo
Cell: 082 468 8812
Cell: 082 327 2600
Tel: 033 328 8000
