<![CDATA[The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping public-sector organisations by accelerating digitalisation, automation, and changes in work processes, yet its implications for workforce adaptability and stability in municipal contexts remain insufficiently understood. This study examines how 4IR influences organisational adaptability, worker preparedness, and job turnover in a South African local municipality. A qualitative research design was adopted, with semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 municipal employees selected through purposive sampling. Data were analysed thematically, with data collection continuing until theoretical saturation was reached. Eight interrelated themes emerged: critical skills shortages, inadequate training, insufficient infrastructure, job insecurity, weak leadership and change management, increased workload, psychological stress, and loss of institutional knowledge. The findings indicate that limited digital preparedness, ineffective communication, insufficient organisational support, and poorly aligned technology planning contribute to employee anxiety, resistance to technological change, and heightened turnover intentions. These findings suggest that the workforce consequences of 4IR are shaped not only by technological adoption itself but also by the organisational capacity to manage technological change and support employees throughout the transition. The study contributes to the emerging literature on 4IR and public-sector workforce transformation by highlighting the organisational and human dimensions of digital transformation within a municipal context in a developing-country setting. The findings underscore the need for coordinated digital transformation strategies that integrate leadership, workforce development, infrastructure investment, employee engagement, and employee well-being. Practical priorities include structured training programmes, clear digital transformation roadmaps, upgraded ICT infrastructure, participatory change management, and targeted retention and well-being initiatives. Keywords: Fourth Industrial Revolution; Job Turnover; Workforce Readiness]]>
Copyrights © 2026
