Bridging academia and industry: A framework for enhancing graduate attributes in South Africa’s Construction 4.0 landscape

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is transforming industries globally, including the construction sector, through Construction 4.0 (C4.0). The study investigates the critical role of graduate attributes (GAs) within the South African Construction Built Environment (CBE) to develop a framework that enhances collaboration between industry and academia, equipping graduates with the skills and adaptability needed for C4.0. Adopting an explanatory sequential, mixed-methods approach, the data were collected from 288 registered Quantity Surveyors (QSs), Construction Managers (CMs) and Construction Project Managers (CPMs), supplemented by qualitative insights from ten in-depth interviews. The findings reveal that GAs such as adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving are essential for navigating the technological and collaborative demands of C4.0. Despite the significant focus on knowledge and skills in current curricula, the study emphasises the critical importance of attributes in supporting lifelong learning, resilience, and innovation. Using the CHAT as an analytical lens, this research offers a framework to realign higher education curricula with industry needs, emphasising the interrelation of KSCA. The study contributes to global discussions on aligning educational outcomes with industry requirements in the context of 4IR. It provides insights to recalibrate South African higher education curricula, ensuring graduate preparedness, and enhancing the employability of future construction professionals.