I am sure that The term “The Fourth Industrial Revolution” has been thrown many times. It is easy to feel overwhelmed with scary looking terms but when you break it down, the terms become a lot more digestible ! Industry 4.0, is the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies, including developments in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics. Think of It is a continuation of the digital revolution that has been occurring since the late 20th century and is characterized by the ability of machines to perform tasks that previously required human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
AI refers to the ability of computers to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. We are already using AI in a variety of applications, including natural language processing, image and speech recognition, and decision-making support.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
The IoT refers to the interconnected network of physical objects (such as devices, vehicles, and buildings) that are embedded with sensors, software, and network connectivity, allowing them to collect and exchange data. We believe that the IoT has the potential to revolutionize the way we live and work by enabling the automation of many tasks and the optimization of processes.
What is Robotics?
Robotics refers to the use of robots for manufacturing, inspection, and other tasks. We believe that robotics has the potential to improve efficiency and accuracy, as well as reduce costs and the risk of injury to workers.
Project Future’s Role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution
As a tech company focused on making technology accessible to all, we at Project Future are deeply interested in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and are working to play a role in it. We believe that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics have the potential to shape the future and improve people’s lives.
In its infancy, Project Future is still building its resources and developing a curriculum that can be shown to schools. Our curriculum is designed to prepare the next generation of leaders for the tech that will form the foundations of our future. The topics that form our curriculum include:
- Introduction to computers and technology
- Digital literacy skills
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Digital creativity and innovation
- Ethical and social implications of technology
- Introduction to artificial intelligence
- Introduction to blockchain technology
- Introduction to Web3
- Introduction to virtual reality
- The Fourth Industrial Revolution and South Africa’s role
We are also aiming to collaborate with other companies, Student Enterprises at the African Leadership Academy and other ventures that share our vision of making technology more accessible to everyone, particularly young people. We believe that the digital divide is a significant issue that needs to be addressed and are working to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and everyday people, making it possible for everyone to benefit from the advancements of the future. By educating people about the potential of these technologies and how they can be used, we are helping to prepare the next generation for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the changes it will bring.
