The future of work – skills, not fear: South Africa’s path to an AI-ready workforce

SOUTH Africa's long-term economic competitiveness depends on how effectively it embraces digital transformation.

- Daniel Orelowitz

THE human element of AI should not be seen as a threat to jobs, says the author.

(AI LAB)

Across the globe, industries are rapidly integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation into their operations, with technology changing how people work, how decisions are made, and how businesses compete.

For South Africa, the challenge is not only technological adoption, but workforce readiness. Without a deliberate national effort to build digital capability, the gap between technology and people will continue to grow. This gap threatens productivity, innovation, and ultimately, economic growth, and it is reaching a critical point. In a global economy moving at digital speed, failing to adapt is not an option.

The human element of AI should not be seen as a threat to jobs, but rather a tool that enhances human performance.

When used effectively, AI allows people to work smarter, not harder, by automating repetitive tasks, supporting data-driven decision-making, and freeing up time for strategic and creative work.

The future of work will not be defined by machines replacing humans, but by how humans and machines collaborate. The real question is not whether AI will take jobs, but whether people are ready to use AI well enough to stay relevant. This mindset shift is