Buildings, Vol. 16, Pages 2734: From Readiness to Resilience: Modelling a Human-Centred Upskilling Framework for Construction 5.0 Transition in Sub-Saharan Africa
Buildings doi: 10.3390/buildings16142734
Authors:
Molusiwa Stephan Ramabodu
Francis Kwesi Bondinuba
Bright Fosu Marfo
Purpose: This study examines the preparedness of the Ghanaian construction workforce for Industry 5.0 by assessing digital readiness, identifying skill gaps, and proposing human-centred upskilling strategies. Design/Methodology/Approach: A qualitative approach was adopted, using six focus group discussions with 32 construction professionals from Accra and Kumasi. Participants were selected using purposive and snowball sampling, while data were analysed thematically. Findings: Four major themes emerged: digital readiness, skill gaps, upskilling strategies, and human–machine collaboration. The findings showed that digital readiness was uneven across roles, with design and managerial professionals demonstrating higher exposure to digital tools than site-based workers and supervisors. Six key barriers were identified: limited BIM competence, low digital literacy, poor technological infrastructure, weak organisational support, inadequate structured training, and resistance to technological change. Three upskilling priorities were also identified: role-specific digital training, continuous professional development, and inclusive training models. Originality: The study provides empirical evidence on Industry 5.0 workforce readiness within a developing-country construction context. Practical Implications: The findings support stronger CPD systems, inclusive training programmes, and collaboration among industry, government, academia, and professional bodies. Research Limitations: The study was limited to 32 professionals in Accra and Kumasi; therefore, the findings are context-specific.
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