SKILLS REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATES IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO ENTER THE INDUSTRY 5.0 LABOUR MARKET IN SOUTH AFRICA

Modern industries depend on effective computer systems and a highly skilled digital workforce. As such, economic work sectors in South Africa such as manufacturing, financial services and digital systems need to adapt in order to comply to evolving demands following on the introduction and application of new technologies. Industry 4.0 had a major impact on many aspects of the business world with the main priority to create smart factories by merging digital technologies and the physical world of manufacturing into Cyber Physical Systems (CPSs). The implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies resulted in automation with the purpose of promoting mass production using robots. Currently a paradigm shift towards a human-centric approach in manufacturing introduced the Industry 5.0 concept. Industry 5.0 promotes a collaborative relationship between humans and robots with the establishment of super smart factories. In Industry 5.0 super smart factories, AI and advanced robotics are applied in an innovative and creative way to manufacture unique customized products. Industry 5.0 requires workers with an in-depth understanding of AI and the latest trends in advanced digital technologies. To this effect Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) fulfill an imperative role in the development of skilled professionals in the field of Information Technology (IT) to support companies in their quest towards the implementation of new technologies. However, HEIs are known to be slow to adapt to change which results in a lack of knowledgeable and skilled workers in IT. As a result, a skills gap between industry requirements and HEI graduates has been reported on in a range of fields of study which includes engineering and computing causing companies to be hesitant in moving towards the implementation of smart and super smart factories. The objective of this study was to identify core Industry 5.0 skills requirements for employees in IT at South African companies. The study used qualitative research methodology. Purposive sampling was used to identify companies who employ workers in the field of IT. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 12 IT employees/managers. Participants were selected based on their knowledge and experience in IT within a business/manufacturing environment. Results were recorded, transcribed, and reported on in the format of Industry 5.0 skills requirements for IT graduates at South African HEIs to meet the demands of IT companies. The study revealed that skills specific to technologies employed at the different companies are required. Furthermore, soft skills such as self-determination and a problem-solving and inquisitive mindset are regarded to be imperative for graduates to be successfully employed in the Industry 5.0 IT workplace.