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The impact of digitalisation on skills development in South Africa: A comparative analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Tarisai Chikungwa Everson

    (Senior Lecturer, Department of Human Resources Management, Walter Sisulu University, Butterworth Campus, South Africa)

Abstract

This review paper examines how digitisation has affected South Africa's skill development while comparing it to worldwide patterns. This examines the impact of digital transformation on training and development practices, particularly through the utilisation of online learning platforms, virtual reality, and augmented reality to enhance learning experiences and engagement, thereby facilitating improved skills acquisition while addressing cultural issues and the digital divide within a South African context. The analysis consolidates findings from literature and studies undertaken between 2020 and 2024, emphasising the improved accessibility to training materials enabled by digital platforms, particularly for underprivileged communities. Nonetheless, a major difference in the use of these technologies between urban and rural areas is evident, highlighting considerable obstacles associated with infrastructure and digital literacy. The review underscores the significance of culturally pertinent frameworks in the execution of digital skills training. Evidence indicates that these frameworks augment involvement and boost outcomes among varied people, addressing particular socioeconomic settings in South Africa. This research emphasises the need for inclusive and contextually relevant strategies to effectively incorporate digital technology into skills development projects by comparing case studies from both emerging and developed economies. The findings underscore that although digitisation has substantial potential for improving skills development, it is essential to tackle institutional constraints and guarantee equitable access to attain favourable outcomes across all communities Key Words:Digital divide, Digitalisation, Skills Development, Online learning, cultural insights.

Suggested Citation

  • Tarisai Chikungwa Everson, 2025. "The impact of digitalisation on skills development in South Africa: A comparative analysis," International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293), Bussecon International Academy, vol. 7(4), pages 79-87, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:adi:ijbess:v:7:y:2025:i:4:p:79-87
    DOI: 10.36096/ijbes.v7i4.913
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Johanna Johansen & Josef Noll & Christian Johansen, 2022. "InfoInternet for education in the Global South: A study of applications enabled by free information-only internet access in technologically disadvantaged areas," African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 14(3), pages 642-654, April.
    2. Richard Heeks, 2022. "Digital inequality beyond the digital divide: conceptualizing adverse digital incorporation in the global South," Information Technology for Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 28(4), pages 688-704, October.
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