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What is the the evolving role of design in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and beyond? As designers and design educators, we are at the forefront of technological revolutions that are transforming society, education, workplaces, and homes. These shifts challenge us to rethink our concepts of work, daily life, and societal structures. As we adapt to the ongoing changes of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), we must also prepare for the emerging Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR).

A critical question emerges: How will designers and design education evolve to develop the knowledge and intelligence needed for this new revolution?

While 4IR focuses on achieving technological efficiency, 5IR aims for a more profound integration of humans and machines, fostering collaboration and co-existence. With the rise of Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, it is crucial to revisit the importance of Design Intelligence – a uniquely human capability essential for navigating this new landscape. Design Intelligence emphasizes human-centred and humanity-focused innovations, driving the creation of personalised, virtualised products and environments where humans and machines work together seamlessly.

We invite academic papers that explore the intersections of design education, theory, and practice within our rapidly evolving contexts. To this end, the conference is organised around three key sub-themes: Ubuntu, Metaverse, and New Materiality. These sub-themes explore how design can navigate and shape the future, emphasising human-centred approaches, the fusion of digital and physical realities, and the innovative use of materials in response to technological advancements.

Read the whole call for abstracts here.
Abstract submission deadline: 24 March 2025

Cumulus South Africa 2025: Design Intelligence and 5IR
25-28 November 2025, Johannesburg, South Africa

Hosted by the University of Johannesburg in cooperation with the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
Conference website to be open soon.

Download abstract template here – https://we.tl/t-11UQRgyp1k
Upload abstracts here https://form.jotform.com/250143351371547

Enquires
For technical enquiries email – [email protected]
For academic enquiries email – [email protected]

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Call for peer-reviewers for the conference!
Check the details here.

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