Navigating Skills Disruption Challenge Amid Industrial 4.0 to Small Medium Enterprises in the Food Manufacturing Sector

ASM Sc. J., 21(2), 2026

Published on October 5, 2026

https://doi.org/10.32802/asmscj.2026.217

Abstract

This paper explores the skills disruption phenomenon faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the food manufacturing sectors during the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies . A semi-structured interview was implemented involved five SME owners, with at least five years experiences in managing SME. Data were thematically analysed and the result; eight skills disruption challenges faced by SMEs in food manufacturing sector, these include skills in marketing strategies, equipment and maintenance, business practice, workforce and training, financial challenges, business operation, time and health as well as management challenges. Provisioning challenges enable SME to better prioriti se investments in workforce training and advanced machinery thereby improving production efficiency and product quality. Policymakers could establish supportive policy frameworks that facilitate industry 4.0 adoption among SMEs, while training providers are positioned as key enablers in addressing the skill gaps by designing and delivering targeted training programs tailored to the specific needs of the SME workforce. This research highlights the human skills dimension from the perspectives of SME owners, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly those related to decent work and innovation.

Keywords: food manufacturing SMEs, Industry 4.0, SDG 8, skills disruption, TVET