Abstract:
BACKGROUND : With technology now being embedded in almost every business, it can be argued
that the advancement in technologies has brought the world at the cusp of the Fourth Industrial
Revolution (4IR). This article, focuses on developing countries, with specific reference to South
Africa. Competition in the provision of goods and services, as well as constant changes in the
preferences of customers, has resulted in the need for the public service to come up with novel
skills and strategies in the use of modern technologies aimed at improving service delivery.
AIM : Firstly, the article identifies the critical drivers for advanced technological changes, and
the opportunities and challenges of embracing the 4IR. Secondly, it makes suggestions on how
South Africa’s public service can enhance its preparedness to embrace technological changes
in order to harness the opportunities and mitigate the impact of the 4IR.
METHODS : The study followed a qualitative approach, using secondary documents, analysing
and providing insight on embracing the 4IR in the public service.
RESULTS : This study established that South Africa is amongst the countries that have not yet
fully embraced the digital transformation of the economy. The public service should utilise
technology to help solve service delivery challenges. Employees need to possess relevant skills
to enhance service delivery.
CONCLUSION : The article concludes that comprehensive and robust education, including
training and development programmes suitable for the public service, needs to be developed,
in keeping with the 4IR’s requisite skill requirements. The government needs to align its
human-resource policies to the 4IR.
