2 New DPRU Working Papers: case studies for UNTANGLED

The DPRU has just published two new DPRU Working Papers, that formed part of a series of case studies for the UNTANGLED interdisciplinary research project*.

Technological Change and Workplace Innovation in the Insurance Sector in South Africa: Disruption with the Potential for Social Good in a Developing Country Context? (DPRU WP202306) is authored by Zaakhir Asmal, Prof. Haroon Bhorat, Lisa-Cheree Martin, and Chris Rooney. They examine how technological change has affected the insurance sector in South Africa, with a particular focus on employment and job quality, skills and inequality. Their findings suggest that technological innovation in the insurance industry needs to be carefully managed, with appropriate policies implemented so that all can benefit.

Co-ordination to support inclusive growth in developing countries in the context of globalization: The case of the business process outsourcing sector in South Africa (DPRU WP202307) is authored by Caitlin Allen Whitehead, Zaakhir Asmal and Prof. Haroon Bhorat. They interviewed five BPO experts to ascertain the opportunities for inclusive growth, job creation, the nature of skills in the sector and factors which have contributed to the continued success of the sector in South Africa. Their findings suggest that outside of major urban centres, opportunities to partake in the sector are limited. In addition, while there are many opportunities for young people for entry-level roles in the sector, there has been a recent shift towards more complex roles, which will require candidates to possess a larger number of skills.