Author: Tomas Karlsson

The world has been reshaped by four industrial revolutions, each marking a turning point in how we live, work, and make.  

McKinsey sums up the four neatly: “Steam propelled the original Industrial Revolution; electricity powered the second; preliminary automation and machinery engineered the third; and cyberphysical systems—or intelligent computers—are shaping the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

From the propulsion of steam in the 18th century to the intelligent systems of today, technology has been a constant driver of change in the manufacturing sector. All of this change has an impact on people – on their jobs, on their skills, on their workplaces and on their lives.

Each time a new industrial era takes hold, we also need to embrace different skills. Skills which will allow us to make the most of the latest technologies, enable us to respond and react to the latest advances, and ensure that we don’t get left behind. 

In our latest report, Making for Tomorrow: Skilling Across the Ages, we look at the impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on the manufacturing sector across the Middle East and Africa. We explore how skilling strategies must evolve across four key ages of learning—school, university, work, and as business leaders—to prepare for a future shaped by advanced technologies.

Intertwined industrial and skilling revolutions

The story of manufacturing is one of transformation. The First Industrial Revolution harnessed steam power to revolutionise production, replacing manual labour with mechanised systems. This era laid the groundwork for modern industry, introducing the demand for engineering and mechanical skills that would shape the workforce of the future.

Today, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is redefining manufacturing once again. The integration of physical, digital, and biological systems has given rise to smart factories, where advancements in AI, IoT, robotics, and additive manufacturing are reshaping global supply chains. The future is being built on continuous learning and adaptability, as workers must master new tools and techniques to stay ahead.

Four ages of learning

The skills and learning story starts before the workplace. The skills the workforce needs have their foundations in school, are shaped in university or on apprenticeships, before being honed and updated in the workplace. As such, the technological and socioeconomic developments associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution have significant impact on educational and skilling policies.

1. School age

The journey toward a skilled workforce begins in the classroom. Early exposure to STEM subjects, paired with creativity fostered through STEAM, equips students with the ability to think critically, solve problems, and engage with digital tools. However, not all children have equal access to quality education. Addressing disparities, particularly in rural and underserved areas across the region, is vital to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in the modern economy.

2. University age

As students progress to higher education, the focus shifts to bridging the gap between foundational learning and industry-specific expertise. Universities and technical colleges play a pivotal role in aligning curricula with market demands, preparing students for careers in design and make industries. These institutions are also critical in nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering graduates to lead in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

3. Working age

For the workforce, staying relevant in the age of 4IR means embracing lifelong learning. The rapid pace of technological change requires continuous reskilling and upskilling to master tools like digital twins, advanced analytics, and automated systems. Employers must invest in accessible training programmes which enable workers to remain competitive and adaptable as the manufacturing sector evolves.

4. Business age

Current and aspiring business leaders need the skills to navigate the complexities of Industry 4.0. Decision-makers must adopt advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and automation while fostering a culture of continuous improvement within their organisations. The ability to align workforce development strategies with business goals is critical for driving productivity, competitiveness, and long-term growth. Effective leadership also involves bridging gaps between education and industry to ensure that talent pipelines remain robust and relevant.

Repeating themes

In an increasingly digital world, the ability to understand and apply digital tools is fundamental. Whether it’s learning basic coding in school or analysing data in the workplace, digital literacy equips individuals with the skills to engage with and adapt to technological advancements. It’s the bedrock of a future-ready workforce.

Technology evolves at a rapid pace, and staying relevant requires a mindset of continuous learning. Lifelong learning fosters adaptability, enabling people to navigate change and seize opportunities in an ever-shifting landscape. This commitment to education and learning must be supported by institutions, employers, and policymakers alike.

It is fair to say none of this can be achieved in isolation. Collaboration between educators, industry leaders, and policymakers is the cornerstone of success. By working together to align curricula with market needs, create talent pipelines, and scale training programmes, stakeholders can build a cohesive strategy that benefits individuals and economies alike.

From Insight to Action

As we look ahead, the question is not just how we prepare for 4IR but how we ensure that education, industry, and policymakers work together to unlock human potential and drive growth across the region. The answer isn’t simple – it requires collaboration, commitment and investment.

Structural reforms and targeted policies are needed to make skills accessible and relevant, from foundational digital literacy in schools to advanced digital capabilities in the workplace. Not only does digital investment need to be incentivised, curricula need to be aligned with industry demands.

Only then can the region fully capitalise on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, positioning its manufacturing sector as a global leader prepared for the future.

Download the report here to explore real-world case studies and for how you can contribute to shaping the future of manufacturing in MEA.

Tomas Karlsson is the Sr. Manager of Channel Services at KnowledgePoint. This means he oversees the management of outsourced extended enterprise learning programmes, recruiting and supporting global network of training providers on behalf of organisations, including Autodesk. 

With more than 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, the continent is home to the world’s youngest population. By 2030, this demographic will swell to more than 375 million and, with it, a staggering number of young people will enter the labour market.

This “youth bulge” presents a dual challenge: either harness this potential to drive economic growth or face the socioeconomic consequences of unfulfilled expectations. At the heart of this challenge lies a critical question: how can Africa equip its youth with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world?

The digital skills gap: a pressing concern

The World Economic Forum (WEF) highlights that the global digital economy is expected to create approximately 92 million jobs by 2030. These roles could help balance skill shortages in higher-income countries while providing significant opportunities for young workers in lower-income regions, including Africa. However, the continent faces a significant digital skills gap that threatens to leave its young population behind. This gap is not just about the availability of jobs; it’s about the readiness of the workforce to fill those roles.

Across Africa, employers cite a lack of adequately skilled workers as a major constraint to business growth. This is compounded by a mismatch between the education young people receive and the skills that industries need. The challenge is clear: to prepare Africa’s youth for the future, the continent must urgently reform its education and training systems.

Education as a catalyst for change

To bridge the digital skills gap, there must be investment in education at all levels, from primary to tertiary and beyond. While there has been progress in increasing access to primary education, more needs to be done to improve completion rates and the quality of education at secondary and tertiary levels. Currently, 30 million African children are out of school, and 35% of the youth have no access to secondary education or technical skills development.

These are missed opportunities for the continent to build a workforce capable of driving digital transformation.

A skills-focused education system is crucial. It must ensure that the supply of skills matches industry demand. For instance, in sectors like Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC), where digital design, project management, and AI are increasingly important, education systems must adapt to produce graduates with these capabilities. As we highlight in our report, Constructing Skills for African Prosperity, initiatives like the African Development Bank’s “Coding for Employment” program are a step in the right direction. However, scaling such programmes to meet the needs of millions of young Africans is a daunting task.

Aligning education with industry needs

To prepare Africa’s youth for the digital economy, closer dialogue between education providers and industry is essential. Employers and educators must work together to understand emerging skills requirements and tailor curricula accordingly. This alignment is crucial to ensuring that young people are not only employable but are also equipped to drive innovation and growth in their respective industries.

Initiatives like BIM Africa’s Student Advocate Program and Egypt’s Quality Standard for Information Technology project are examples of how education can be aligned with industry needs. They introduce students to advanced digital skills, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), which are in high demand in the AEC sector. By embedding these skills into degrees, African universities can produce a new generation of graduates who are ready to contribute to the continent’s digital economy.

Policy and fiscal investment

If nations are to fully harness the youth potential, policies must prioritise digital skills development. This requires significant investment in education, infrastructure and technology. Governments must create an enabling environment that encourages private sector investment in digital technologies and job creation. Education systems need to be flexible, inclusive, and proactive, capable of producing a workforce that can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the digital economy.

The African Union’s vision of “harnessing digital technologies and innovation to transform African societies and economies” underscores the importance of this approach. To achieve this vision, African nations must adopt a multifaceted strategy that includes reforming education systems, fostering innovation and creating opportunities for young people to thrive in the digital economy.

A pathway for the future

Africa’s youth bulge presents an unparalleled opportunity for the continent to become a global leader in the digital economy. However, realising this potential requires concerted effort from governments, the private sector and educational institutions.

By investing in digital skills and aligning education with industry needs, Africa can turn its demographic advantage into a powerful engine for economic growth.

The continent’s youth bulge, if well managed, could drive unprecedented economic growth and development. Digital skills development should be prioritised – and education systems reformed. Young people should be able to flourish – and help the continent thrive in a digital world.

Tomas Karlsson is the sr manager of channel services at KnowledgePoint. This means he oversees the management of outsourced extended enterprise learning programs, recruiting and supporting global network of training providers on behalf of organisations, including Autodesk. 

Drawing on exemplars from Autodesk Learning Partners, our insight report “Constructing Skills for African Prosperity” is part Autodesk’s commitment to education. We ponder how, in a region facing a significant “youth bulge”, capability and skills gaps which exist now, could be further widened in the future. Drawing on industry exemplars, we offer practical solutions and suggest actions for players across the AEC ecosystem.

For more information about the report and Autodesk’s commitment to education:  https://knowledgepoint.com/autodesk/constructing-skills-for-african-prosperity/

Africa is on the cusp of a digital revolution, with the potential to reshape its economic and social landscape. With the focus and investment, the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector could play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth across the continent.

With Africa’s population expected to reach 2.4 billion by 2050, the demand for infrastructure, housing, and urban development will be immense. However, to meet these demands and unlock the full potential of the sector, players across the sector must embrace digital technologies and invest in the skills necessary to leverage them.

The business case for digital transformation

For businesses operating in the AEC sector, digital transformation shouldn’t just be a buzzword—it needs to become the path to maintaining competitiveness and achieving long-term success.

The adoption of digital technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM) can revolutionise the way projects are designed, managed and executed – thereby leading to significant improvements in efficiency, safety, and sustainability. BIM offers a comprehensive approach to project management, allowing for better collaboration, reduced errors and more informed decision-making throughout the construction lifecycle.

The benefits of digital transformation extend beyond operational efficiency. By leading the way in digital adoption, businesses can enhance their reputation, attract top talent, and differentiate themselves in a crowded market. The integration of digital tools and technologies can also open new avenues for innovation, enabling businesses to explore sustainable building practices, optimise resource use, and contribute to the broader goals of economic and environmental sustainability.

The imperative for skills development

The successful adoption of digital technologies hinges on the availability of a skilled workforce capable of navigating this new landscape. For businesses, investing in the continuous training and upskilling of their workforce is no longer optional—it is essential. Employees equipped with the right digital skills can unlock the full potential of BIM and other technologies, driving productivity and innovation.

It is incumbent on businesses to take a proactive approach to skills development by allocating resources to training programmes that cover the latest tools, software and best practices in the industry. They should look to invest in technical training and also a culture of continuous learning and adaptation.

Opening doors to the next generation

Businesses have a crucial role to play in nurturing the next generation of talent. Africa’s youthful population represents a vast pool of untapped potential, and the AEC sector can be a major driver of job creation and economic growth. But here’s a challenge. For young people to thrive in this sector, they need exposure to real-world experiences and opportunities to develop relevant skills.

Employers can make a significant impact by offering internships, apprenticeships and work experience programmes which provide young people with hands-on experience in the industry. These initiatives not only help bridge the skills gap but also create a pipeline of future professionals who are well-versed in the latest technologies and practices. By actively engaging with educational institutions and signposting career opportunities, businesses can inspire young people to pursue careers in the AEC sector. This should help to ensure a steady flow of talent to support the industry’s growth.

Taking charge of your digital future

While businesses have a responsibility to foster skill development, individuals can take ownership of their career trajectories in this rapidly changing landscape. The AEC sector is becoming increasingly competitive, and those who can demonstrate proficiency in digital tools and technologies will have a distinct advantage in the job market.

Seek out opportunities to enhance digital skills, whether through formal education, online courses, or on-the-job training. Acquiring industry-recognised certifications can further validate expertise and open doors to new career opportunities. By staying ahead of industry trends and continuously updating skills, individuals can position themselves as valuable assets in the digital transformation of the AEC sector.

All of this is not just about professional advancement—it’s about contributing to the broader goal of building a sustainable and resilient future for the continent. As digital ambassadors, they can advocate for the adoption of innovative solutions that enhance project outcomes, reduce environmental impact, and improve the quality of life for communities across the continent.

A collective responsibility

The digital transformation of Africa’s AEC sector is a shared responsibility. Collaboration will drive the adoption of digital technologies, foster the development of essential skills, and unlock the full potential of the sector to contribute to Africa’s growth.

The blueprint is ready—now it’s time to build.

Tomas Karlsson is the sr. manager of channel services at KnowledgePoint. This means he oversees the management of outsourced extended enterprise learning programmes, recruiting and supporting global network of training providers on behalf of organisations, including Autodesk. 

Drawing on exemplars from Autodesk Learning Partners, our insight report “Constructing Skills for African Prosperity” is part Autodesk’s commitment to education. In this report we explore some of the unique challenges and opportunities affecting the region. We consider factors impacting the rate of change and adoption of technologies in the sector. Drawing on industry exemplars, we offer practical solutions and suggest actions for players across the AEC ecosystem.

For more information about the report and Autodesk’s commitment to education:  https://knowledgepoint.com/autodesk/constructing-skills-for-african-prosperity/

Team DesAIgn placed third in the international Designathon for their idea, CraBIN, an innovative machine which collects waste from the land and the sea.

Mechanical Engineering students, Ahmet Akçadırcı and İbrahim Berat Ertuğrul, represented Yildiz Technical University, Türkiye, in the two-day Designathon. 

The two-day event, Designing a Green Tomorrow, organised by Autodesk and KnowledgePoint, attracted more than 100 students teams representing 29 institutions.

When asked about the event, Team DesAIgn said:

“We wanted to challenge ourselves and compete with others. It was both instructive and entertaining for since the project has mechanical and designing sides. It was good to learn about Fusion and about working with a group. And it taught us about the importance of patience, communication and project management.”

CraBIN: green, efficient and cute design concept

Commenting on their concept, Team DesAIgn said:

“Land and water cleaning has never been so fun. CraBIN uses solar panels on its top to gather clean energy, and uses it to clean the environment! It has four arms, two of them collects waste on earth and send to its mouth. Two of them collects the waste on water surface and collects them by opening its solar panel top.”

Expert view

The Designathon concepts were judged by an expert panel including representatives from Autodesk and KnowledgePoint.  The judges were impressed by the quality of the student submissions:

“We appreciated this project for its nature inspired design, making it the most successful among similar entries. Its ability to adapt to the environment and accomplish tasks effectively contributes to a greener world.”

Organised by KnowledgePoint, Designathon is part Autodesk’s commitment to education. The two-day online event saw nearly 300 students from 12 countries develop vital digital skills, and compete in the global challenge. 

Team MechanicalMen from Nigeria secured second place at Designathon 2024 for their autonomous, multi-functional and self-balancing design. The students, representing Obafemi Awolowo University in lle-lfe, Nigeria, designed a concept for a waste collection vehicle which could operate both on land and in the sea.

The second-year mechanical engineering students from Team MechanicalMen, Olalere Glory Oluwadamilare and Nwachukwu Praise, took part in the two-day Designathon organised by Autodesk and KnowledgePoint.

When asked about the competition, the team said:

“Designathon 2024 presented a unique opportunity to showcase our problem-solving skills, think outside the box, and bring our concepts to life. By taking part in this exciting competition, we aimed to inspire others, receive valuable feedback, and demonstrate the potential of ideas to drive positive change. Being recognised as a Designathon 2024 winner is a tremendous honour that will significantly enhance our portfolios, propel our careers forward, and serve as a testament to our creative potential. This achievement will empower us to showcase my innovative ideas on a global stage, demonstrating my capabilities and passion for design to a wider audience.”

Themed Designing a Green Tomorrow, Designathon 2024 involved teams of industrial design and engineering students learning and competing over the course of two days. They learnt how smart design can play a part in the transition towards a more sustainable future. Student teams showcased their creativity and design skills in crafting concepts for a better world.

Autonomous waste management concept

Commenting on their concept, Team MechanicalMen said:

“Our innovative design tackles the pressing issue of waste management by introducing an autonomous vehicle capable of operating on both land and water. This cutting-edge product features advanced self-balancing technology, enabling it to navigate diverse terrain with ease. Additionally, our design incorporates a versatile robotic arm, precision-engineered to collect waste materials in both aquatic and terrestrial environments, making it an effective solution for mitigating environmental pollution.”

Expert view

The Designathon concepts were judged by an expert panel including representatives from Autodesk and KnowledgePoint. The judges were impressed by the quality of the student submissions:

“We liked its innovative autonomous driving and self-balancing design, combined with a streamlined shape and sustainable features like a retractable solar roof. The multifunctional capabilities, including systems to suck in water and dirt, along with propellers for movement, make it a standout entry.”

Organised by KnowledgePoint, Designathon is part Autodesk’s commitment to education. The two-day online event saw more than 100 student teams develop vital digital skills, and compete in the global Designathon challenge. 

Read more about the Designathon and Autodesk’s commitment to education here.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, effective training is more important than ever. For the AEC sector, the success of digital transformation hinges on well-prepared instructors who can transfer essential knowledge and skills.

In our report, Constructing Skills for African Prosperity, we draw upon exemplars which highlight the importance of “train-the-trainer” models. Autodesk Learning Partners share best practice and reinforce the importance of partnership working.

Nancy Tremblay and Michele Broccardo from Autodesk emphasise the importance of both subject matter expertise and instructional skills. Autodesk Certified Instructors (ACIs) are equipped with role-aligned content, hands-on projects, and methodologies like Bloom’s Taxonomy and the ADDIE model, ensuring that they can deliver engaging and impactful learning experiences.

Ongoing mentorship and support are vital. By fostering a community of learning and providing continuous development opportunities, trainers/instructors are not just prepared—they are empowered to inspire the next generation of professionals.

Incorporating these best practices into training programmes create a powerful multiplier effect. For the AEC sector, investing in high-quality train-the-trainer programmes is not just a nice-to-do, it’s a necessity for future readiness.

Read the full report here.

Team ROBOHOLICS from Estonia won the international student design competition for their concept for a waste collection vehicle which could operate both on land and in the sea. 

The first-year students representing TTK UAS (University of Applied Sciences) saw off competition from more than 100 students teams representing 29 institutions.

Sander Siigur, Hanno-Laur Kunnus and Mihhail Bõstrov, who are studying electrical engineering, took part in the two-day Designathon, Designing a Green Tomorrow, organised by Autodesk and KnowledgePoint. 

Commenting on their win:

“All problems are locks waiting for the right key. We learnt how to work under pressure and how to work with Fusion. The best part was the 10-hour locked in timeframe we had for the design phase. It really made us push our limits. A first-place award in an international event like the Designathon will definitely look good on an engineering CV.”

The Designathon Designing a Green Tomorrow involved teams of industrial design and engineering students learning and competing during a two-day online event. They learnt how smart design can play a part in the transition towards a more sustainable future. Student teams showcased their creativity and design skills in crafting concepts for a better world.

Commenting on their design, Team ROBOHOLICS said:

“Our fully autonomous beach cleaning robot represents a significant advancement in environmental technology. Its ability to operate both on land and underwater, combined with its eco-friendly power source and advanced AI capabilities, make it an ideal solution for maintaining the cleanliness of coastal areas. This innovative system not only enhances the experience for beachgoers but also plays a vital role in protecting marine life and preserving the natural beauty of our beaches.”

About the winning design

Team ROBOHOLICS’ fully autonomous beach cleaning robot is a versatile and eco-friendly solution designed to keep coastal areas pristine. This innovative machine excels in collecting garbage from both the sand and the surface of the water, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for beachgoers. Equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) technology, it navigates seamlessly across varying terrains, adapting to different beach conditions with ease.

Validation from experts

The student entries were judged by an expert panel including representatives from Autodesk and KnowledgePoint. The judges were impressed by the calibre of the student submissions.

Commenting on Team ROBOHOLICS’ entry, the expert jury said:

“We selected this project as the first-place winner due to its exceptional 3D modelling, which is both detailed and highly successful. The design realistically accomplishes the given tasks and clearly explains how the device operates.”

Organised by KnowledgePoint, Designing a Green Tomorrow is part Autodesk’s commitment to education.  The second Designathon saw students develop vital digital skills, and compete in the global challenge. 

Around the world, Building Information Modelling (BIM) has become an in-demand tool which has proven to energise the construction sector. Enabling the digital management and design of buildings and engineering processes, BIM is viewed as being directly responsible for improvements in productivity.

However, the AEC ecosystem across the African continent is playing catch-up. According to research from BIM Africa, around 44% of construction professionals are using BIM on their projects. 

We wanted to explore this further – that’s why our latest insight report, Constructing Skills for African Prosperity, includes a snap-shot of awareness and adoption levels. 

Download the report here, and then get in touch to find out how you can get involved.

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The construction sector in Africa needs to undergo a transformative shift, increasing its adoption of critical digital technologies. The combination of rapid urbanisation, economic growth and infrastructure needs has created a fertile ground for digital transformation.   

Digitisation sits at the heart of ambitious transformation plans for many nations, as it is seen to play a role in increasing efficiency and improving productivity. However, the adoption of digital technologies within the construction industries varies across the region. 

Why is this? Many reasons but at the core is a need for investment – whether it be the capital investment required for the technologies or investment in education and training.

When technology and development go hand-in-hand, the importance of education and training comes to the fore – new skills are needed. Investment in developing digital capacity and capability is essential across the construction sector which is critical to the success of key infrastructure projects and more. 

“Digital skills” is a far-reaching term, encompassing core digital literacy as well as specialist skills – the ability to use digital tools and platforms, data analysis, cybersecurity, and the application of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). In the context of construction, such digital skills are vital for improving efficiency, reducing costs, enhancing safety and ensuring the sustainability of projects.

One of the primary reasons digital skills are critical in construction is the need for accurate and efficient project management. Tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM) allow for the creation of detailed 3D models of buildings and infrastructure, enabling better planning and collaboration among stakeholders. This technology not only improves the precision of designs but also helps in anticipating potential issues before they become costly problems.

Investment in infrastructure is key

It is fair to say that many recognise that robust infrastructure is essential for economic development, social inclusion and regional stability.  

As we reference in our latest insight report, Constructing Skills for African Prosperity, according to Foresight Africa:

“Especially roads, connect people, resources, and information. From providing physical access to markets, customers, suppliers, to reducing transportation and transaction costs. Roads and other transport and communication infrastructure are the arteries of the economy, facilitating innovation, specialization, and competitiveness across the continent.”

Projects ranging from transportation networks and energy systems to water supply and digital infrastructure, are vital.

At the recent meeting of the G7 in Italy, the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII) reiterated its support for the Loboto rail corridor – a project which will connect southern and central Africa, bringing vital telecommunication and other infrastructure to the region. 

The African Digital Infrastructure Initiative is a collaborative effort to improve digital connectivity across the continent. This project aims to lay down extensive fibre optic networks and enhance mobile connectivity, thereby facilitating the adoption of digital technologies in various sectors.

The Trans-African Highway Network is designed to link major cities across the continent with modern roadways. Arguably, the project’s success hinges on the application of advanced digital tools for planning, construction and maintenance. Digital skills are essential here, as they enable the use of drones for site surveys, GIS for mapping and planning and BIM for providing a basis for decision-making throughout the lifecycle of the project.

Making a commitment to a digital skills transformation

The transformation is not just about building roads or skyscrapers; it’s about creating a foundation for long-term economic development and improving the quality of life for millions of people across the continent.

As digital tools become more integrated into construction processes, the need for a digitally literate workforce becomes ever more pressing, making education and training vital.

A skills-focused education system needs to make sure that skills supply keeps up with industry demand.  Education has a role to play in producing the people needed to drive digital transformation across the AEC sector – the right number of people, with the right skills at the right levels to develop and adopt digital systems, such as BIM.  

As one of the youngest populations in the world, adequate investments need to be made in education and learning that hold value in the labour market for the long-term. A reshaping of educational and training curricula – from pre-primary to tertiary and lifelong learning – will need to happen to enable the adoption of ever-evolving digital technologies.

According to the African Union,

“education systems need to be flexible, inclusive, proactive and tuned into producing a new breed of workforce that readily and continually learns and unlearns on a wide array of complex skills and competency required in the ever-changing digital world”. 

Curricula need to encourage critical thinking, creativity and emotional intelligence as well as accelerate acquisition of digital and STEM skills.

By investing in digital skills, Africa can not only improve its infrastructure but also create jobs and foster economic growth. The construction industry, with its extensive value chain, can become a major driver of this growth, provided it embraces the digital revolution.

Players across the sector need to adopt new working practices and embrace technology – by doing so they’ll increase efficiency, improve safety standards and contribute to sustainability goals.

Governments and educational institutions need to inspire an increasingly youthful population – they need to accept collective responsibility for preparing them for careers in a transformed construction landscape.

We all need to make an investment into digital skills now – and in doing so shore up the foundations for critical infrastructure and economic growth across a continent on the cusp of transformation.

Tomas Karlsson is the Sr. Manager of channel services at KnowledgePoint. This means he oversees the management of outsourced extended enterprise learning programmes, recruiting and supporting global network of training providers on behalf of organisations, including Autodesk. 

Drawing on exemplars from Autodesk Authorized Learning Partners, our insight report “Constructing Skills for African Prosperity” is part Autodesk’s commitment to education. In this report we explore some of the unique challenges and opportunities affecting the region.  We consider factors impacting the rate of change and adoption of technologies in the sector. We also ponder how, in a region facing a significant “youth bulge”, capability and skills gaps which exist now, could be further widened in the future. Drawing on industry exemplars, we offer practical solutions and suggest actions for players across the AEC ecosystem.

The digital revolution continues to reshape industries worldwide – and manufacturing is no exception. The integration of digital technologies, often referred to as Industry 4.0, is transforming traditional manufacturing processes, enhancing productivity, and driving innovation.

In manufacturing we’re seeing the adoption of the likes of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, robotics, and cloud computing. These allow manufacturers to optimise operations, reduce costs, improve product quality, and respond more swiftly to market demands.

I recently read a report by McKinsey which said digital technologies can increase production line efficiency by up to 30% and reduce machine downtime by 50%. Predictive maintenance powered by AI and IoT can anticipate equipment failures before they occur, allowing for timely interventions and minimising production disruptions.

As manufacturers adopt new technologies, they can develop new business models, create innovative products, and enter new markets. For example, 3D printing technology, or additive manufacturing, allows manufacturers to produce complex parts with greater precision and at a lower cost. This technology is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs, enabling them to compete with larger players.

However, the successful implementation of these technologies hinges on the availability of a skilled workforce. Digital skills have been shown to be essential across various facets of manufacturing, from design and production to maintenance and supply chain management.

Despite all of this, there is a digital skills gap.

A study by the World Economic Forum highlights that 54% of employees in the manufacturing sector will require significant reskilling and upskilling by 2025 to meet the demands of digital transformation. 

According to PwC, 32% of employees in the Middle East said their companies were using technology to automate and upgrade the workplace. But 53% of respondents in the region reported there were limited opportunities to learn from colleagues with advanced technical or digital skills. This could hinder the region’s ability to compete internationally.

I can cite more data and find more examples, but I think you get the point. Something needs to be done.

So, the good news is there are initiatives aiming to address the challenge (the question is though, is it happening fast enough??).

The European Commission’s Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition aims to improve digital skills among the workforce, including those in the manufacturing sector. In the United Arab Emirates, the government has introduced the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025, which focuses on enhancing digital literacy and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.

Collaboration between industry, academia, and government is essential to developing and nurturing digital skills in manufacturing. Partnerships can facilitate the sharing of knowledge, resources, and best practices, ensuring that the workforce is adequately prepared for the digital future.

This collaborative approach ensures that the latest advancements built into curricula, and understood by a new generation of workers. In the UK, the Made Smarter initiative brings together government, industry, and academia to support the digital transformation of manufacturing through training programmes, innovation hubs, and funding for digital projects.

Encouraging students of all ages to pursue education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is crucial. STEM education lays the foundation for digital skills and prepares the future workforce for the demands of Industry 4.0. We need to get young people excited and inspire them for the future.

Our contribution: Designathon 2024

We like to think we’re playing a part with boosting digital skills across the region. One way we’re doing this is with Designathon 2024. 

This is how it works:

Day one sees students boost their digital design skills, learning about Autodesk Fusion and its key workflows. Then on day two, they work in teams to respond to a challenge, putting their new skills to the test.  They work together, they collaborate – and they compete for prizes.

It will offer student teams the opportunity to learn how smart design can play a part in the transition towards a more sustainable future. They get to showcase their creativity and design skills in crafting concepts for a better world.

• Where: online
• When: 26 and 27 June 2024
• Sign-up now: Entries are accepted from teams of students – a team of 2 (minimum) or 3 (maximum). 

But we’re closing for entries very soon – get your team together and enter before 19 June.

The importance of digital skills in manufacturing, and more generally, cannot be overstated. As digital technologies continue to evolve, employers must equip their workforce with the necessary skills to fully capitalise on the benefits afforded by new technologies. Enhanced productivity, increased innovation, and improved competitiveness to name just a few.

By embracing digital skills, manufacturers can not only navigate the challenges of the digital age but also seize the opportunities it presents, driving economic growth and industrial advancement for years to come.

Tomas Karlsson is the Sr Manager of channel services at KnowledgePoint. This means he oversees the management of outsourced extended enterprise learning programmes, recruiting and supporting global network of training providers on behalf of organisations, including Autodesk. 

Organised by KnowledgePoint, Designathon 2024 is part Autodesk’s commitment to education.  The two-day online event will see students develop vital digital skills, and compete in the global Designathon challenge.  For more information about the Designathon 2024 and Autodesk’s commitment to education here.

References

McKinsey. (2021). The future of work in Europe: Automation, workforce transitions, and the shifts ahead. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future-of-work/the-future-of-work-in-europe

World Economic Forum. (2020). The Future of Jobs Report. https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2020

PwC. (2022). Middle East Workforce Hopes & Fears Survey 2022. https://www.pwc.com/m1/en/issues/upskilling/hopes-and-fears-2022.html

UAE Government. (2021). UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025. https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/strategies-initiatives-and-awards/government-strategies-and-plans/uae-digital-government-strategy-2025

Made Smarter. (2021). Transforming UK manufacturing with digital technology. https://www.madesmarter.uk/