Industry 4.0: University Students' Perception, Awareness and Preparedness - A Case of Namibia

Industry 4.0 is a new trend in the manufacturing and relevant sectors that is based on the integration of a set of technologies that enable the ecosystem of intelligent, autonomous and decentralized factories and integrated products and services. Beyond its predecessor revolutions, it is one with the potential to raise global income levels and improve the quality of life for populations around the world. However, like any technology, it has its positive and negative aspect and as a result, is described by some as a "greater promise or a potential peril." To take maximum advantage of the promise or overcome the peril, industries including the educational sector have to prepare for it. The educational sector need to prepare for it as it is an employer and more importantly a training facilitator for other industries. This study undertook an investigation to establish the awareness and preparedness of students in the educational sector especially in developing countries (including Namibia) for the fourth industrial revolution. Using a quantitative design approach, data was collected from 24 students in three universities in Namibia. The study found that students are aware of industry 4.0 but further education on its applications is needed to further prepare students to be able to work within the era of the revolution. Though not much direct education on industry 4.0 is given to students, most students have used industry 4.0 applications and are competent in using most of the industry 4.0 applications. Relevant government bodies and schools need to put strategies in place to create further awareness of industry 4.0, specifically on smart factories and augmented reality to get students ready for the revolution.