Examining the socio-economic variables and basic skills provision in navigating the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A case study of long-distance truck drivers in South Africa

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the impact of socio-economic variables influencing the provision of basic skills for navigating the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Objectives: The study aims to describe the variables underpinning this study, using statistical analysis and quantitative measurement as displayed in Table 1. It also investigates the role of socio-economic variables, using a Chi-Square test and Multinomial Logistic Regression techniques, in the provision of basic skills for handling direct and indirect challenges of the 4IR. Further, it attempts to provide recommendations, based on research findings, on strategies for ensuring that long-distance truck drivers are well-equipped with the necessary skills for meeting the demands of the 4IR.

Method: The study utilised a quantitative research method. A multinomial regression model was used to describe long-distance truck driver data collected in South Africa. A total of 314 participants completed the questionnaire.

Results: Results revealed that variables such as driver’s education level, frequency of route usage, company type, and driver’s work location are significant predictors in predicting whether a given truck driver possesses basic skills for handling the challenges of the 4IR. This finding holds significant practical implications, as it allows for targeted interventions and tailored strategies aimed at effectively addressing the identified predictors to encourage the desired response of having long-distance truck drivers equipped with essential 4IR skills.

Conclusion: This study contributes to the body of knowledge regarding factors affecting long-distance truck drivers in getting basic 4IR skills essential for them to properly implement new technologies arising in the haulage trucking industry.

Contribution: It documents the experiences of long-distance truck drivers in the face of newly emerging technologies in the transport industry.