Human-Centred SME Factories

As part of the SME 5.0 project, funded by the European Union, I undertook a three-month secondment at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. I was warmly welcomed and supported by Louis Louw and Dr. Philani Zincume, to whom I would like to express my sincere thanks.

Together with Dr. Zincume, I explored key questions related to the future of work and learning in manufacturing environments, particularly within the context of Industry 5.0. Our joint research focused on identifying the evolving requirements and challenges that both individuals and companies may face in the transition to human-centric, resilient, and sustainable production systems.

In addition, we investigated the competencies and skill sets employees will need to thrive in these future-oriented work environments.

This collaboration represented an important step in advancing the SME 5.0 project’s objectives and deepening the understanding of workforce development in the context of Industry 5.0.