Technological Innovations and Employees’ Employability Development Challenges in Mauritius. The Mediating Effect of Career Anchors

This study investigates the impact of rapid technological innovations, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, on employees’ employability in Mauritius during the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It addresses the critical research question of how these technological changes affect skill development, job security, and career perceptions within various sectors of the Mauritian economy. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected through a questionnaire survey from 217 respondents across multiple industries. The study applies correlation and regression analyses to examine the determinants of technological innovation, organizational strategies, and their effects on employability outcomes, including the mediating role of career anchors. Findings reveal a dual impact of technological advancements: while they threaten job security through automation and disruption, they simultaneously create opportunities for employees to upskill and enhance their competitiveness. Organizations that adopt proactive strategies, such as fostering continuous learning and promoting adaptability, significantly improve workforce employability and resilience amid digital transformation. The results highlight the importance of organizational support in mitigating risks associated with technological change and in facilitating career development. This paper contributes to the understanding of how technological innovation reshapes employment landscapes in Mauritius, emphasizing both favorable and unfavorable consequences for employees. It underscores the need for strategic interventions to balance technological progress with workforce sustainability. The study’s insights are valuable for policymakers, business leaders, and educational institutions aiming to navigate the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by AI and digital transformation in Mauritius’s evolving labor market. This research thus offers a comprehensive view of the complex relationship between technology, employability, and career development in a small island developing economy undergoing rapid digital change.