The Impact of Innovation in the Manufacturing Sector on the Employment Rate Aat Sappi, Umkomaas Plant : A Critique of Employability in Africa

In today's globalized world, innovation has developed into a vital aspect. As modifications in technology persist, services and information impacts on a nation's competitiveness both externally, as well as, the welfare of the public internally. It is anticipated that technological innovation will essentially alter the impending topic of employment. The argument surrounding this is contentious in that some presume a redundant future, whereas others maintain that technological innovation in due course enhances the establishment of new employment (Merikull, 2008). Innovation shapes development by contributing to economic growth and improving the quality of life by altering the way things are conventionally done. Change more than often, involves insecurity and risks. This study analyses the impact of innovation on employment in the manufacturing sector by examining the relationship associated with the implementation of innovation, new technologies and the ensuing influence on human capital.|The research was conducted at Sappi Southern African in Durban- Umkomass, a global diversified wood fibre company. The Sappi Saiccor division specialises in dissolving wood pulp. The sample population for the study is employees under the Bleaching Plant at Sappi and the strata comprised fifty-nine (59) employees within this plant. The research approach selected was the mixed methods study as it encompassed the collection, analysis and integration of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches in the form of questionnaires answered by the production level employees and management interviews. The results conclude and concur that technological innovation has a positive influence on the impending employment at Sappi Saiccor.