Abstract
Abstract : The founder of the World Economic Forum, Klaus Schwab, makes a compelling case that the single most important challenge facing humanity today is how to understand and shape the new technology revolution. What exactly is this revolution, and why does it matter, especially for Africa? The first industrial revolution spanned 1760 to 1840, epitomised by the steam engine. The second started in the late 19th century1,2 and made mass production possible with the use of electricity. The third began in the 1960s3 with mainframe computing and semi-conductors. Perhaps most importantly for South Africans in the use of renewable energy. This offers the possibility of devolved, deep and broad access to electricity for all. However, the population in SA have still not enjoyed the benefits of the second industrial revolution when it comes to ‘the lights staying on’. The fourth may finally deliver electricity because it no longer relies on a centralised grid infrastructure. A smart grid can distribute power efficiently across a number of homes in very remote locations. Children will be able to study at night. Meals can be cooked on safe stoves limiting the risk of devastating fires. Indoor air pollution can basically be eradicated. But when one looks at the shambles that is ‘Eskom’ – will this ever happen? Even with never ending bail-outs by the SA Government. The “4IR” captures the idea of the convergence of new technologies and their cumulative impact on our world. Artificial intelligence (AI) can produce a medical diagnosis from an x-ray faster than a radiologist and with pinpoint accuracy. Robotic surgery will be the ‘norm’. Robots can manufacture cars faster and with more precision than assembly line workers. They can potentially mineable-metals such as platinum and copper, crucial ingredients for renewable energy and carbon cleaning technologies. 3D printing is already changing manufacturing business models in almost inconceivable ways. Self-driving vehicles will change traffic flows by avoiding bottlenecks. Remote sensing and satellite imagery may help to locate a blocked storm water drain within minutes and avoid city flooding...