Preparing Zimbabwean Women for the Future of Work: The Role of STEM Education in The So-Called Fourth Industrial Revolution

Abstract

ABSTRACT As we stand on the cusp of what Schwab claims to be the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), the world of work is undergoing a rapid and profound transformation. Zimbabwe strives to ready its labour market for the seismic changes already underway. In order to thrive in the future of work, the World Economic Forum advises that a country must educate its populace in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Unfortunately, Zimbabwean women remain underrepresented in STEM professions, with a mere 28.79 percent of women holding STEM degrees, compared to 71.21 percent of men. These statistics underscore the urgent need to educate more women in STEM fields. This paper addresses the bigger question: “Is Zimbabwe ready for the future of work”? To this end, this paper offers a nuanced analysis of the 4IR and its implications for Zimbabwe’s future of work. Drawing on primary and secondary literature, we map out women’s barriers and propose strategies to overcome them. This paper uses an integrative literature review, making a valuable novel contribution to the burgeoning literature on the intersection of the 4IR, gender equality and the future of work in Zimbabwe. The paper showcases that Zimbabwe is unprepared for the changing nature of work and needs to increase women’s participation in STEM subjects. By empowering Zimbabwe’s women in STEM fields, we can ensure that they can thrive in the future of work and that Zimbabwe can participate fully in the digital economy.