We develop & create digital future.
TUT launched the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW) in 2021, as an ideation hub for global public-private collaboration and invention designed to respond to the requirements of the rapidly changing world of work brought about by 4IR. The Institute for the Future of Work is an initiative by the Tshwane University of Technology to bridge the gap between the academia and the industry.
The role of the institute is to forge strong and mutually beneficial partnerships with the industry, to develop and sustain the dialogue between the academia and the industry and to position the university as a thought leader on the subject of the future of work.
Through this initiative the university seeks to influence the curriculum discourse and lead the way in producing high impact research, knowledge that works and future ready graduates.
Central to this initiative is the annual 4IR Dialogue on the Future of Work. Tshwane University of Technology successfully hosted the first dialogue in 2022. It brought the academia, government departments, industry, international developmental agencies, and the civil society under the same roof.
Vision
- To institutionalise IFOW as a Leading fulcrum of ideation on the future of works
At the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW), we envision a world where technological advancements are harnessed to create a more equitable and inclusive society. Our mission is to ensure that the transformative power of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) benefits everyone, leaving no one behind.
Mission
Empowering Communities through Accessible Education
Position TUT as the people’s university, making knowledge accessible and applicable to all. This involves creating inclusive educational programs, fostering community engagement, and ensuring that the university's research and initiatives directly benefit the broader society. The goal is to bridge the gap between academia and the public, making education a tool for societal empowerment.
Pioneering Digital Transformation in Higher Education
Become a digitally advanced university by integrating cutting-edge technology into all aspects of academic and administrative operations. This includes enhancing online learning platforms, implementing smart campus solutions, and leveraging data analytics to improve student outcomes and operational efficiency. The aim is to create a seamless, tech-enabled environment that prepares students for the digital world.
Advancing Research on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the Future of Work
Engage in high-impact research focused on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the future of work. This involves exploring emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, and big data, and their implications for the workforce. The goal is to produce research that not only advances academic knowledge but also provides practical insights and solutions for industries and policymakers.
Driving Innovation to Address Societal Challenges
Foster innovation endeavors aimed at developing solutions to pressing societal challenges. This includes supporting interdisciplinary research, establishing innovation hubs, and collaborating with industry partners and government bodies. The focus is on creating tangible, scalable solutions that improve quality of life and drive sustainable development.
Aligning Curricula with the Digital Economy
Shape curricula to reflect the contemporary reality of the digital economy. This involves updating course content to include the latest technological trends, incorporating digital skills training, and ensuring that students are well-prepared for the evolving job market. The goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Establishing Thought Leadership on 4IR and the Future of Work
Position TUT as a thought leader on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the future of work by hosting strategic dialogues, conferences, and workshops. These events will bring together experts from academia, industry, and government to discuss and share insights on the future of work, emerging technologies, and their impact on society. The aim is to foster a collaborative environment that drives forward-thinking and innovative solutions.
The Team
We are driven by a passionate and dedicated team committed to transforming education and making a positive impact on society. Get to know the individuals who are leading the way in our mission to become a leading institution of the future.