Driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution Initiative Through University and Industry Collaborations

Aliu John, Aigbavboa Clinton, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

As the world basks in the euphoria of the fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), Africa is gearing up for this innovative age, with South Africa as one of its leading voices. One of theways of leveraging on the opportunities presented by the 4IR era is to foster collaborationsbetween universities and the construction industry (university-industry collaboration, UIC).This research article aims to determine the positive impacts of UIC on the employability ofbuilt environment graduates. A qualitative Delphi approach was adopted to validate16 factors, which were identified from literature. A total of 14 experts completed a twostageiterative Delphi study process and reached consensus on all 16 factors identified.This study found that networking activities with industry professionals, student's exposure toinnovative ideas and 4IR training programme opportunities are some of the ways throughwhich UIC can improve 4IR knowledge and employability skills among students. From theDelphi survey results, educational institutions have been placed under significant pressuresto intensify collaborations with the industry by creating avenues for students to experienceindustrial training with present-day 4IR-driven sectors such as the construction industry,which has begun the adoption of 4IR elements into its processes to improve efficiency andproductivity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)211-230
Number of pages20
JournalJournal of Construction in Developing Countries
Volume26
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Built environment
  • Collaboration
  • Employability skills
  • Fourth industrial revolution
  • Pedagogy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Architecture
  • Building and Construction
  • Strategy and Management
  • Management of Technology and Innovation

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