Abstract
The impact of the Fourth industrial revolution has been experienced to varying degrees with far-reaching implications in various domains, including economies, industries, education, transportation, and governance. Although there is consensus on the benefits and drawbacks of Fourth industrial revolution, the implications of Fourth industrial revolution on Technical and Vocational Education and Training programmes in South Africa are well documented. The study accoutred to enhance knowledge in the field and add to the debates on the implications of Fourth industrial revolution on the Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme in South Africa. Through the Human Capital Theory lens, the study sought to understand how Technical and Vocational Education and Training can be aligned with the demands of Fourth industrial revolution in South Africa. The objective of the study was to investigate the implications of the Fourth industrial revolution on the Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme and determine how, in the context of Fourth industrial revolution, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme can be used appropriately to prepare graduates in South Africa for the workplace. A constructivist paradigm sheltered the study through a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design. A purposive sampling was applied to select eight participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain rich and meaningful responses from respondents. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, themed, and analysed through thematic analysis with the aid of Atlas.ti. The results of the study revealed that the Technical and Vocational Education and Training curriculum falls short in preparing students for the Fourth industrial revolution workplace because of misalignment with the labour sector, resistance to change, shortage of technical expertise, and the lack of resources. Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges, lecturers, public entities, quality assurance, students, practitioners, and service providers must maintain positive relationships with the industry. Establishing a strong collaboration between business and Technical and Vocational Education and Training is essential to harnessing Fourth industrial revolution skills requirements.