LET’S TALK ABOUT WORK

Work. It’s such a loaded word, isn’t it? It’s where most of us spend the bulk of our waking hours, how we pay the bills, and – hopefully – where we find some sense of purpose and community. But it’s also where we face stress, navigate change, and have those moments that make us rethink everything.

Take me, for example. I started out as a research scientist, completely fascinated by the world of microbes. I loved the thrill of discovery and analysing data. But fast forward, and today I’m the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at Wits. Now, my work is about strategy, leadership, and ensuring that research has a real-world impact. It’s a completely different kind of problem-solving – and one I never could’ve imagined for myself.

I’ll be honest, the transition was a big leap. But isn’t that life? Most of us end up on unpredictable career paths. The average person changes careers (not just jobs) three or more times in their lifetime. That’s wild, when you think about it, but also exciting, with each shift offering a brand-new world, with fresh challenges, opportunities, and lessons to learn.

In this issue of Curios.ty, there’s much to explore as we unpack what work means in all its forms. Artificial Intelligence is shaking up industries, offering incredible possibilities, but also sparking fears about job losses. How do we prepare for the evolving new world of work and ensure that no one gets left behind?

Curios.ty is Wits University's award-winning research magazine that explores innovative ideas, cutting-edge science, and thought-provoking discoveries. First published in May 2017, Curios.ty provides a platform for academics, researchers, and postgraduate students to share insights that tackle the pressing issues of our time. Each edition is themed and unpacks these topics in an accessible and engaging way, bringing research to life. The #WORK issue delves into the evolving nature of work, shaped by societal shifts, technological advances, and equity challenges. We examine how AI is revolutionising industries and raising ethical questions while exploring how to bridge South Africa’s skills gap in the face of higher education’s evolution. We highlight efforts to create inclusive, adaptable workplaces that prioritise equity and well-being. From navigating migration trends in South Africa to exploring life after retiring from professional sports, this edition delves into how work shapes mobility and identity. It celebrates entrepreneurial spirit among students, unpacks workplace dynamics such as burnout and toxic environments, and considers the role of algorithms in management. Provocative columns explore mathematics and AI in the world of work, and the enduring importance of human creativity in a digital age. Historical narratives and an artist profile reflect on the meaning of work across time. Together, these stories offer fresh perspectives on the past, present, and future of work.

Education plays a huge role, especially in South Africa where inequality and our skills gap mean many young people are struggling to find meaningful work. Essential research will provide data to understand these challenges and insights to craft effective solutions. What skills will tomorrow’s workforce need? How can higher education adapt to prepare graduates for jobs that don’t even exist yet? And how do we create policies that ensure AI works for humanity and not against it?

Then there’s remote work – one of the biggest shifts in recent years. For some, it’s been a dream come true: no commuting, flexible hours, and escaping toxic environments. Let’s not ignore the downsides: endless online calls, blurred work-life boundaries, and feelings of isolation. Research is vital here too, to understand how remote work affects productivity, mental health, and equity.

Burnout is another growing concern. Even as we talk more openly about mental health, people are working themselves harder than ever. It makes one wonder when work stopped being about thriving and started feeling like just surviving? We need research to guide us toward healthier, more sustainable approaches that takes gender gaps, disability inclusion and the needs of the marginalised into consideration.

Work isn’t just about climbing corporate ladders or hitting deadlines. It’s about finding meaning and, sometimes, redefining what success looks like. The rise of side hustles and entrepreneurship show just how resourceful people can be. Even retirement is changing, providing the opportunity for many to reinvent themselves. Studying the “silver economy” can help us tap into the wisdom and experience of older workers while supporting their needs.

And let’s not forget nature. Worker bees, ants, and other creatures show us what collaboration and purpose look like in their purest form. Researching these natural systems can teach us lessons in efficiency, teamwork, and resilience.

So, what does work mean to you? Is it just a job, or something more? Whatever your answer, I hope that this issue of Curios.ty sparks some fresh ideas – and maybe even inspires you to take your next big leap.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my career journey, it’s this: Work isn’t static. It changes as we change. If we navigate that change with curiosity and intention, we can ensure that work evolves in ways that uplift us all.

Professor Lynn Morris Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation

Professor Lynn Morris

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation

Dr Robin Drennan Director: Research and Development

Shirona Patel Head: Communications

Schalk Mouton

Senior Communications Officer and Curios.ty Editor

Deborah Minors

Senior Communications Officer and Curios.ty Co-Editor

Erna Van Wyk

Senior Multimedia Communications Officer and Curios.ty Digital Director

Chanté Schatz

Multimedia Communications Officer and Curios.ty

Photographer and Picture Editor

Wendy Mothata

Social Media Officer

Ntando Hoza

Communications Intern

SUB-EDITOR

Deryn Graham

COVER DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATIONS

Lauren Mulligan

LAYOUT AND DESIGN

Nadette Hartzenberg

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