TechConnect: Assessing and Strengthening Human-Tech Skill Complementarity in the Digital Landscape

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TechConnect thoroughly explores the ongoing debate regarding the influence of emerging technologies on human labor and skills. It places a distinct emphasis on Human-Tech Skill Complementarity, highlighting the essential interdependence and mutual enhancement of both human and technological skills in a systemic manner. The primary goal is to deepen our understanding of the dynamic interplays between new digital technologies and human skills, generating novel and practical knowledge on this emerging topic of Human-Tech Skill Complementarity. The project brings together a multidisciplinary team and employs diverse methods, including policy analysis, systematic literature review, annual cross-sectoral industry landscape surveys, in-depth case studies in the healthcare sector and validating the findings beyond this sector via stakeholder engagement, workshops, and guidelines production. The key outcomes include the development and validation of the Human-Tech Skill Complementarity Conceptual Framework, Assessment Index, Strengthening Model, and TechConnect Stakeholder Toolkit. These outcomes reveal the how new technologies such as AI and robotics affect human skills, emphasising the development and deployment of technologies that enhance individual skills and workforce capabilities. Adopting a collaborative approach, TechConnect forms a consortium with academics, industry partners, and a stakeholder engagement firm. This collaborative effort fosters partnerships with technology associations, professional groups, and government entities. Grounded in the research-informed, evidence-based and practice-driven approaches, TechConnect will make a meaningful impact on the quality of employment and competitiveness, contributing to social and economic resilience. The collective efforts of the consortium are geared towards disseminating findings and recommendations widely, with the ultimate goal of influencing policy and practice for inclusive growth in the digital landscape.