5Technology is inherently social in how it is utilized to connect, serve and feed people. It can help solve today’s biggest challenges and unlock endless opportunities. The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network is predicated on the understanding that different regions will have different priorities for using technology to address key challenges. Centres choose specific thematic focus areas on which to focus their work and pilot programmes. This year, there are seven core thematic areas of research and impact generation: ushering in the Intelligent Age; transforming agriculture and food systems; revolutionizing health and biotechnology; accelerating the energy transition and sustainability; innovating mobility with autonomous systems; upskilling tomorrow’s workforce; stimulating investments and competitiveness; and fostering partnerships and communities. The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation has galloped forward, completely shifting global priorities and ushering in what has been dubbed the Intelligent Age, where AI and advanced automation become ubiquitous in technology and its increasing applications. With many regions confronting the question of global food security, centres look to address this challenge through technology application in traditional farming and by innovating food systems entirely to elevate the alternative protein sector. Global health and health education remain cornerstone sectors for societies, and centres are looking to expand knowledge and access to health information and education. This includes the enablement of state- or country-wide data sharing for health research, improved resources for healthcare workers and access to education to drive health innovation. The future of energy is intertwined with the future of sustainability, with many seeking to use key technologies to improve energy efficiency and increase data availability in the quest for a sustainable future. The movement of people and goods is continuously being innovated, increasing efficiency and closing gaps created by inequality and geography. Through drone and autonomous pilot systems, centres are looking to change how people think about mobility. Ensuring that the workforce and society progress alongside technological advances is key for the future of economic growth and for creating an Intelligent economy. Upskilling programmes and pilots are key to modernizing education and keeping workers active in key industries. The future of the economy is up for grabs, with cutting-edge technology always on the precipice of upending the traditional understanding of what is possible. Through investments in digital assets and quantum and space technologies, alongside improved regulatory environments, economic futures hold endless possibilities. None of this innovation and impact would be possible without collaboration. The network aims to bring together regional stakeholders to collaborate and generate impact through pilot programmes, in-person and virtual events, and by creating collaborations between centres to broaden the possibilities of innovating solutions.Executive summary The mission of the Centres for the Fourth Industrial Revolution remains simple: use rapidly evolving technologies to improve lives around the world.

Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network 2023-2024