Data Science Program for the 4IR Job Market

SANDTON, GAUTENG – July 16, 2025 – As the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) continues to reshape global industries, iFundi, a leading career education provider, is positioning professionals and aspiring data scientists to thrive in the evolving job market. The institution is highlighting its Data Science Practitioner Program, with a crucial second semester intake scheduled for September.

According to Stefan Lauber, co-founder and CEO of iFundi, the urgency for skilled talent in fields like data science has never been greater. Lauber recounts insights from 2017 discussions with industry leaders, where sectors such as insurance and banking predicted job destruction rather than creation due to technological advancements.

”The question is not only how we create jobs, but how do we respond to job destruction,” Lauber stated, referencing the World Economic Forum’s 2016 coining of the 4IR term. He noted that the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT has significantly accelerated these changes. While some estimates suggest up to 30% of current jobs could be eliminated in the coming years, new opportunities will emerge, underscoring the critical need for proactive skills development. “If you are well educated, you’re less likely to be unemployed,” Lauber added, emphasizing that acquiring new skill sets typically takes two to three years.

With over two decades of experience and more than 20,000 graduates, iFundi’s strategic focus is on cultivating in-demand skills, particularly in IT, management, and customer interaction.

The Data Science Practitioner Program distinguishes itself through several key features designed for the modern learner:

    • Online and Flexible Learning: The program is delivered entirely online, offering working professionals the convenience to study from home and at their own pace, significantly reducing commute times.
    • Work-Integrated Learning: A core principle is applying theoretical knowledge directly to practical scenarios, ensuring graduates possess job-ready skills. This is supported by iFundi’s strong relationships with employers to facilitate work experience opportunities.
    • Practical Curriculum: Learning materials are developed with input from industry experts and delivered by active practitioners, ensuring relevance and real-world applicability.
    • AI-Powered Support: iFundi leverages advanced AI tools, including an AI-powered skills plan for corporate clients, an AI tutor for academic assistance, and AI mentor for personal guidance, and an AI career advisor for path exploration. These tools are described by Lauber as “world leading.”

Kenneth Motau, a senior management professional and subject matter expert in data science with over 15 years of experience, elaborated on the breadth of opportunities within the field. Motau, who holds a BSc in statistics and computer science, provided examples of data science applications across various sectors, including:

    • Climate Change Analysis: Building models to track and predict environmental shifts based on historical weather data.
    • Economic Forecasting: Analyzing currency fluctuations to inform import/export strategies.
    • Energy Management: Detecting energy theft and optimizing distribution through smart grid data analysis.

Motau highlighted diverse career paths such as Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Analyst, Quantitative Analyst, Data Scientist, and Data Engineer, all centered on extracting insights from data to inform business decisions. He stressed the global demand for these skills, often leading to competitive remuneration, including remote work opportunities leveraging cloud technology. “Numbers are so nice!” Motau encouraged, advising that a strong foundation in mathematics from high school provides a significant advantage.

Addressing common concerns about mathematical aptitude, Joel Perry, iFundi’s Academic Director, confirmed that the program is structured to accommodate learners with varying backgrounds, including those with Math Literacy. “We have, in previous programs on data analytics, included a bridging program on basic math and statistics, and that usually goes very well,” Perry explained. The Data Science Practitioner Program incorporates dedicated modules on logical thinking, basic calculations, and essential statistics for data analysis. He emphasized that continuous practice is key to developing proficiency in the field.

Adding a graduate perspective, Simon Maluleka, an iFundi alumnus now at Open Serve, described his experience as “very interesting, very refreshing.” Maluleka underscored that data science involves more than just numbers; it’s about “storytelling, problem-solving, and innovation.” He encouraged prospective students to “stay curious, ask questions, and embrace the iterative nature of data work.”

The iFundi Data Science Practitioner Program is presented as a crucial pathway for individuals to acquire future-proof skills. Interested applicants for the September intake can contact student advisor Isabel Mamashela for registration information.

For more information or to register, visit iFundi or contact Isabel@ifundi.co.za.