ACCA research shows significant shift towards automation, digitalisation across various industries

A research undertaken by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in its markets, including Zambia, has identified main trends likely to shape the future of work, coupled with the coming of technology.

The research conducted recently suggested a significant shift towards automation and digitalisation across various industries, leading to changes in job roles and responsibilities.

Business Development Manager, Maambo Mulenga, was responding to press query by Zambia Monitor on Monday

Mulenga said the recent global talent survey, encompassing over 9,000 professionals across 157 countries, including Zambia, highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing employers and employees alike.

“Amid the dominance of artificial intelligence (AI) in headlines, our survey reflects genuine excitement about the possibilities AI offers, alongside enduring concerns about its impact on jobs,” she said.

Among the main trends identified in the research likely to shape the future of work included skill diversification, which Mulenga noted that rapid technological advancement demanded diverse skill sets.

She advised that professionals needed both technical and soft skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving workplace.
Digital transformation was another trend the research identified.

“Digital transformation reshapes industries and job roles. Organisations invest in technology-driven initiatives to remain competitive, impacting talent acquisition and workforce development strategies,” Mulenga said.

The research, on other hand, highlighted some challenges such as the rapid pace of technological advancement and the need for professionals to adapt to new digital tools and processes.

Other challenges included building resilience in the face of economic uncertainty, global crises, or industry disruptions and the misalignment between the skills possessed by the workforce and those demanded by employers.

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