The future of work in South Africa

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between social cohesion and technological advancement in South Africa. The linkages between these dimensions are discussed from the context of South Africa's engagements in BRICS. Through engaging with study participants from the research and business sectors, this chapter identifies a set of policy drivers that may influence the country's trajectory for economic and social transformation. Given South Africa's high level of inequality, it may be unclear how advancing technological adoption can improve the living conditions of the poor. This chapter attempts to identify how the digital divide could be bridged to help grow the economy and enhance social cohesion. While the study participants had a pessimistic outlook for South Africa's developmental trajectory, given the country's experiences post-1994, they did point to various opportunities to reverse this trend and promote a competitive economy that is conducive to employment creation.