You are used to riding a bicycle every day. One morning, someone brings a motorbike to your street. Suddenly, people stop riding bicycles because the motorbike is faster. You now have two options; learn how to ride the motorbike or get left behind.
That is exactly what is happening today with technology. It is replacing old ways and making us adjust fast.
Today, we will break down the three big technological disruptions that are affecting almost every professional, and even non-professionals, across the world.
And most importantly, we will talk about what you can do about it.
Disruption 1: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation
AI is everywhere. You may not see it, but it is already working behind the scenes in your life.
When you chat with a customer service bot, that is AI.
When your phone suggests what you should type next, that is AI.
When banks use smart systems to check your credit, that is AI.
Even in hospitals, AI helps doctors read X-rays faster.
Automation is also part of this disruption. Machines and software can now do jobs that used to need humans. For example, many companies use software to handle salary payments, send emails, or even hire staff.
How it is affecting everyone:
AI and automation are reducing the need for human hands in many industries. Clerical jobs, routine office work, factory tasks, and even some creative jobs like writing and design are being done by machines now.
Teachers, marketers, engineers, artists, accountants, almost everyone’s work is touched by AI today.
What you can do:
You do not need to fight AI. Instead, learn how to work with it.
Get familiar with basic AI tools in your field.
Focus on the skills that machines cannot do well; like creativity, leadership, empathy, and critical thinking.
Disruption 2: Digital Platforms and Remote Work Culture
The way we work and do business has changed forever. You do not have to own a big shop today to sell things. You can sell your products on Facebook Marketplace, Jumia, or Amazon without stepping out of your house.
Remote work is now a global trend. People now work for companies in the USA, UK, or Canada while living in Nigeria, Kenya, or India. Apps like Zoom, Slack, and Google Meet have made it easy to work from anywhere.
How it is affecting everyone:
This disruption has removed the limits of geography.
But it also means more competition, you are no longer competing only with people in your city. You are now competing with people worldwide.
For non-professionals, digital platforms like Bolt, Airbnb, Upwork, and Fiverr have made it possible to earn money without a formal office job.
What you can do:
If you are a professional, improve your digital communication and remote work skills.
If you run a business, think of how to move your services online.
If you are unemployed, look into freelance platforms and digital marketplaces where you can sell your skills.
Disruption 3: Data Revolution and Cyber Dependency
We live in a data-driven world now. Every click, every purchase, every social media post; you are creating data.
Big companies use this data to make decisions. Governments use it to plan cities. Businesses use it to understand customers.
But with this data revolution comes cyber dependency. We now depend heavily on the internet, apps, and digital tools. And that opens doors for risks; cyber fraud, data theft, misinformation, and digital addiction.
How it is affecting everyone:
Healthcare professionals now store patient records online.
Teachers and schools use digital platforms to collect student data.
Banks store customer information digitally.
Even small businesses depend on digital payment systems.
But when there is a cyberattack or data breach, everything can fall apart.
What you can do:
As a professional, learn the basics of data privacy and cybersecurity.
Be careful about the information you share online.
If you run a business, secure your digital platforms and teach your staff about safe online behavior.
So, What is the Big Lesson?
These three disruptions: AI & Automation, Digital Platforms & Remote Work, Data Revolution & Cyber Dependency, are not slowing down.
The question is; Are you ready to adapt?
At Edufun Technik STEM Foundation, we believe that everyone; young or old, professional or non-professional, can learn to adapt and succeed in this tech-driven world.
Technological disruption is not something to fear, rather something to understand. You can either run from it, or run with it.
Choose to run with it.
