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Workers embrace AI and prioritise skills growth amid rising workloads and an accelerating pace of change: PwC 2024 Global Workforce Hopes & Fears Survey

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Almost half (45%) of workers say their workload has increased significantly in the past year, as almost two-thirds (62%) say the pace of change at work has increased over the same time
More than one-quarter (28%) say they are very or extremely likely to switch employer in the next 12 months – a higher proportion than during the ‘Great Resignation’ (19%) in 2022
Employees prioritise skills-growth: fewer than half (46%) strongly or moderately agree that their employer provides adequate opportunities to learn new skills. This is particularly important for workers considering leaving: two-thirds (67%) say opportunities to learn new skills are a key factor in any decision to job-switch
More than 80% of workers who use generative AI daily expect it to make their time at work more efficient in the next 12 months. Half (49%) of all users expect it to lead to higher salaries
Cost-of-living pressures ease slightly: the proportion of workers with money left over each month rises to 45% (compared to 38% in 2023). However, 52% say they are still financially stressed

LONDON, June 25, 2024 /CNW/ — Among more than 56,000 workers across 50 countries and territories, many say they are prioritising long-term skills growth to accelerate their careers amid rising workloads and heightened workplace uncertainty, according to PwC’s 2024 Global Workforce Hopes & Fears Survey, published today.

In the last 12 months, workers say they have experienced rising workloads (45%) and an accelerating pace of workplace change. Nearly two-thirds (62%) say they have experienced more change at work in the past year than the 12 months prior, with two-fifths (40%) noting their daily responsibilities have changed to a large or very large extent. Almost half (44%) don’t understand the purpose of changes taking place.

In the midst of this growing mix of employee pressures, the findings suggest workers are alert to opportunities elsewhere, and are highly focused on skills growth and embracing AI.

More than one-quarter (28%) say they are likely to switch employer in the next 12 months, a percentage far higher than during the ‘Great Resignation’ (19%) of 2022. Two-thirds (67%) of those considering moving say skills is an important factor in their decision to stay with their current employer or switch to a new one.

Carol Stubbings, Global Markets and Tax & Legal Services (TLS) Leader, PwC UK, said:

“As workers face heightened uncertainty, rising workloads and continue to face financial stress, they are prioritising skills growth and embracing new and emerging technologies such as GenAI to turbocharge their growth and accelerate their careers. The findings suggest that job satisfaction is no longer enough. Employees are placing an increased premium on skills growth in a climate characterised by constant technological change. Employers must ensure they are investing in their employees and technological platforms to mitigate employee pressures and retain the brightest talent.”

Workers embrace AI to ease workplace pressures and unlock personal growth

As employees face heightened workplace pressures, they are also turning to new and emerging technologies such as generative AI (GenAI) to help. Among those employees who use GenAI daily, 82% expect it to make their time at work more efficient in the next 12 months.

Employees are also optimistic about opportunities for GenAI to support their growth. Half (49%) of all users expect GenAI to lead to higher salaries – an expectation that’s even higher (76%) among employees who use the technology daily. More than 70% of users agree that GenAI tools will create opportunities to be more creative at work (73%) and improve the quality of their work (72%).

The skills imperative

Workers are placing an increased premium on skills growth to mitigate their concerns and accelerate their careers. Employees who say they are likely to switch employers in the next 12 months are nearly twice as likely to strongly consider upskilling in that decision than workers planning to stay (67% vs. 36%). This comes as fewer than half (46%) of all employees moderately or strongly agree that their employer provides adequate opportunities to learn new skills that will be helpful to their careers.

Employees who are likely to leave in the next year may be more attuned to skills changes that are needed than the general workforce, with 51% moderately or strongly agreeing that the skills their job requires will change in the next five years (vs. 29% of those unlikely to change employer).

There is particular interest in the impact of AI on skills development, with 76% of all users expecting it to create opportunities to learn new skills at work. However, employers will need to invest heavily in new and emerging technology training and access. Among employees who have not used GenAI at work in the last 12 months, one-third (33%) don’t think there are opportunities to use the technology in their line of work, while 24% don’t have access to the tools at work, and 23% don’t know how to use the tools.

Despite the pace of change, there are also signs of optimism and engagement at work. 60% of workers expressed at least moderate job satisfaction (up from 56% in 2023) while more than half (57%) of employees who view fair pay as important agree that their job is fairly paid. Cost-of-living pressures have slightly eased since 2023 (the proportion of workers with money left over each month has risen to 45%, up from 38%). However,  more than half (52%) say they are still financially stressed to some degree.

Pete Brown, Global Workforce Leader, PwC UK, said:

“Technology is fundamentally transforming the way work gets done and the types of skills employers are looking for. Employees are therefore placing an increased premium on organisations that invest in their skills growth so that they can stay relevant and thrive in a digital world. Businesses in turn must be proactive in their upskilling programs – prioritising the employee experience and being transparent. Because when you meaningfully engage your workforce, they become an accelerant for successful transformation.”

Notes to Editors: 

About the Survey

In March 2024, PwC surveyed 56,600 individuals across 50 countries and territories who are in work or active in the labour market. The sample was designed to reflect a range of industries, demographic characteristics and working patterns. You can read the full report on pwc.com.

About PwC

© 2024 PwC. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details.

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SOURCE PwC

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Redefining Charging: Anker Innovations Showcases Smart and Sustainable Solutions at CES

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BELLEVUE, Wash., Jan. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Anker Innovations, a global leader in mobile charging and consumer electronics, today unveiled its latest groundbreaking charging innovations at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), held January 7-10 in Las Vegas. Among the featured products from Anker mobile charging and Anker SOLIX are the 25,000mAh Anker Power Bank, Anker 140W Charger, EverForest 2 Electric Cooler and Solar Umbrella, redefining fast-charging standards for users worldwide.

The products mentioned above will soon be available in Southeast Asia as well. “As the world’s No.1 mobile charging brand, we are grateful for the support of Southeast Asian consumers,” said Leon Wu, Head of Anker Innovations Southeast Asia. “Our mission is to ignite possibilities through ultimate innovation, and we are committed to providing products that exceed consumer expectations in Southeast Asia.”

Anker Innovations, a global leader in fast-charging technologies, develops products for home, office, and on-the-go charging. By integrating Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology and proprietary features, Anker delivers a safer, faster, and more sustainable charging experience. The Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, 160W) won the CES 2025 Innovation Award in the Computer Peripherals & Accessories category.

Anker 25,000mAh Power Bank (165W, Built-In and Retractable Cables)

Small in size and packed with the latest PD 3.0 technology, Anker’s fast-charging power bank delivers powerful performance.

Looking at Anker’s 25K 165W compact power bank, it boasts an impressive 25,000mAh capacity. Equipped with three USB-C ports and one USB-A port, it is ideal for charging multiple devices on the go. It can charge a MacBook Air 13′(M3) 2024 1.3 times, an iPhone 16 up to 4.5 times, and boost a MacBook Pro 16″ (M3) battery to 50% in just 33 minutes.

Notably, Anker’s 25,000mAh 165W power bank is the world’s first high-power power bank with retractable cables. It includes a 22cm cable and a 69cm retractable cable, this provides flexible charging options for users on the move while walking, sitting, or lying down.

With its smart TFT color screen and vibrant user interface, the power bank provides real-time data, including output power, power bank temperature and estimated charging time. Users can pull the retractable cable to trigger screen animations featuring dynamic emojis, adding a new level of convenience and fun.

Anker 140W Charger featuring First-Ever Digital Display

Anker’s charger breaks new ground as the first to feature a digital window display, bringing advanced functionality to the forefront. Users can easily check the total power output, output for each port, view the remaining power in real-time, monitor temperature, and track the total operation time for a more comprehensive overview.

Real-time temperature monitoring ensures device safety, while Anker’s advanced Active Shield 2.0 technology enhances the safety and reliability with up to 3 million daily safety checks. Built with aerospace-grade GaN, the charger maximizes performance for faster and more efficient charging.

Additionally, the four-port charger (3 USB-C and 1 USB-A) boasts sleek aesthetics and wall mounting capabilities.

Anker Prime 250W GaN Desktop Charger (6 Ports)

The Anker Prime 250W GaN Desktop Charger is a powerful 6-port solution designed for modern multi-device users. With 4 USB-C ports and 2 USB-A ports, it offers up to 250W of total output, capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, from smartphones to laptops. Its standout feature is the 140W max power delivery for MacBook Pro users, fully charging a 16″ MacBook Pro in under two hours via PD3.1 technology.

A key feature is the 2.3″ LCD display, which shows real-time power output for each port and can be turned off manually or automatically. The twist button control allows users to view port details, adjust priorities, and switch between power modes with ease. This GaN-based charger combines high power, compact design, and smart control, making it the ideal charging solution for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike.

Leading the Future of Charging Technology

Anker’s new line of high-speed USB-C chargers are available exclusively on apple.com and at select Apple Stores in Singapore, designed to meet a variety of charging needs and can efficiently charge Apple Watches, AirPods, iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and more, making them the perfect companion for Apple devices.

As a global pioneer in charging technologies, Anker continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Featuring cutting-edge GaN technology, these latest products deliver faster speeds, reduced heat generation, and more compact designs compared to traditional silicon-based chargers.

More importantly, these innovations are designed with user insights in mind, transforming charging devices from cold hardware into interactive and connected ecosystems, solidifying Anker’s status as a leader in next-generation charging technology.

In the near future, Anker plans to bring its Prime series—the most advanced multi-device fast charging lineup—along with its cutting-edge innovations to more users across Southeast Asian countries.

About Anker

Anker is the world’s #1 mobile charging brand and a developer of high-speed charging technologies for the home, car, and on the go. This includes wall plugs, wireless chargers, car chargers, power banks, cables, and more. Find out more about Anker at anker.com.

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SOURCE Anker Innovations

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Promise Exchange Program Debuts at CES in Las Vegas Showcasing 7 Tunisian Startups

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The U.S.-funded initiative connects Tunisian entrepreneurs with U.S. and global startup communities

Explore Tunisia’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, visit with Tunisia’s Ambassador to the US, and connect with global innovators at CES January 7-10 Las Vegas, NV at the Venetian Expo Hall, Booth 50025

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Promise Project, a U.S.-funded initiative to strengthen Tunisia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, is bringing Tunisian innovation talent and startups to CES 2025 for the first time, aiming to connect Tunisian entrepreneurs with the U.S. and global startup communities.

Organized by the Tunisian American Young Professionals (TAYP), the booth will feature cutting-edge innovations from Tunisian startups in sectors such as AgTech, Energy, Robotics, Smart Cities, and Food Tech. The exhibit will spotlight Tunisia’s dynamic startup ecosystem with special guests and live demonstrations throughout the CES event.

Additionally, the program will welcome Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, the Tunisian Ambassador to the U.S. and CES along with representatives from CONECT and the French delegation from CPME (more details below).

The Promise Exchange Program is a U.S.-funded initiative in partnership with the U.S. State Department, Tunisian American Young Professionals and implemented by Deloitte.

Special Guests & In-Booth Event

Innovate Together – Building Bridges Worldwide with special guest, Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisian Ambassador to the U.S.
Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, the Tunisian Ambassador to the U.S. will be visiting the Tunisian booth at CES along with representatives from CONECT and the French delegation from CPME. 

Featured Speakers:

Mrs. Hanene Tajouri Bessassi, Ambassador of Tunisia to Washington DCHE Mrs. Nejia Gharbi,General Director of ” la Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations” – CDCMr. Tarak Triki, Managing Director Smart Capital

Date: Tues., January 7th at 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Location: Venetian Expo, Level 2, Halls A-D, Tunisian Booth # 50025

Featured Startups
The Tunisian Companies featured at Booth 50025 (in alphabetical order):

AquaDeep | AgTech
AquaDeep is revolutionizing fish farming with AI-powered counting solutions and IoT-based data extraction tools. Our modular services support aquacultures at every stage, enhancing control and efficiency.

DeepVolt | Energy
DeepVolt develops AI solutions for E-Mobility. Our flagship product, DeepVolt Location Intelligence Assistant (DLIA), enables cities and businesses to identify profitable locations for EV charging stations in minutes.

OORB (Open Organic Robotics) | Robotics OORB (Open Organic Robotics) is a young Tunisian startup featuring the OORB framework, the Robodog quadruped educational kit, and the OORB Studio & community. Our open-source framework, built on ROS with AI at its core, offers cloud-based tools for robotics development, including AI-driven code generation, CAD design, and real-time collaboration.

Smart For Green | AgTech
Our aim is to protect at-risk forests, farms and factories from the threat of fire. Our fire protection solution for farms, forests and factories is based on a multidimensional approach: predicting risks, detecting them in time and assisting response teams.

SPIRAW | Food Tech SPIRAW combines biotechnology and IoT to offer a home-based solution for growing fresh, high-quality spirulina. Inspired by Nespresso, our innovative machine automates cultivation, paired with a mobile app for monitoring, recipes, and eco-impact tracking.

Wayout  | Smart Cities Wayout’s mission is to eliminate marine pollution and reduce floodings through sustainable solutions to the infrastructure. Our first product launched is Zigofiltre; a filter that captures waste and lets water pass easily. Today we installed a little bit more than 2000 across 22 regions in Tunisia.

WeMake3D  |  Robotics WeMake3D produces locally made 3D printers fit for both the educational and industrial use. Our goal is to build the bridge between the two fields in order to accelerate the growth of the 3D printing technology in Tunisia, the MENA region and the African continent.

To learn more about the Tunisian startups, in-booth demonstrations, or schedule meetings visit the website at www.tunisianinnovationhub.com or connect via the CES 2025 App.

About Tunisia Innovation Hub
The Tunisian Innovation Hub, part of the U.S funded PROMISE project, will showcase 7 Tunisian startups at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, NV.

Organized by Tunisian American Young Professionals (TAYP), the booth highlights innovations in AI, 3D printing, renewable energy, e-mobility, marine tech, agri-tech, smart systems.

About Promise Exchange Program
Promise was founded to strengthen the Tunisian entrepreneurial ecosystem, allowing startups to attract international investments, become more scalable, and maximize economic impact. The program features multiple programs ranging from ideation bootcamps, international exchange programs, patenting assistance, and investment readiness. 

About Tunisian American Young Professionals
A non-profit organization powered by an ever-growing community of Tunisian and American professionals across various sectors of industries. We are committed to contributing our experiences and expertise to build thriving economic opportunities and vibrant cultural exchanges between Tunisia and the US.

By connecting professionals and through public-private partnerships, we create projects and initiatives focusing on Export, Entrepreneurship, Exchange and Education.

Press Contact:
Michelle Lorge
michelle@pitchcandypr.com
615-587-4980

Click here for more details about our booth at: https://ces25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=001Pp00000aVjSOIA0

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SOURCE Tunisian American Young Professionals (TAYP)

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Empowering Mining with Green Innovation: SANY Unveils Africa’s Largest Solar-Storage-Diesel Microgrid

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SHANGHAI, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On December 29th, SANY Silicon Energy reached a significant milestone in the international “Solar + Storage + Diesel” microgrid power generation sector by launching the Zambia Ruida Mining Microgrid Power Project. This initiative is recognized as Africa’s largest single-unit hybrid microgrid designed for mining operations, highlighting SANY’s commitment to promoting green energy transformation and sustainable development throughout the region.

Distinguished as Africa’s largest microgrid project designed for mining activities, the venture encompasses a 13 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system in conjunction with a 39 MWh battery energy storage system and a diesel generator as a backup power source. These components synergize to form a cutting-edge integrated microgrid system seamlessly harmonizing solar, storage, and diesel technologies. The project’s primary objective is to ensure a steadfast and dependable electricity supply for mining operations, consequently achieving energy self-sufficiency, diminishing reliance on conventional energy sources, and bolstering energy efficiency and sustainability.

Exhibiting the hallmark “SANY Speed,” the project swiftly progressed from the signing of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to its commissioning within a mere four months. Despite navigating challenges posed by Zambia’s intricate topography, severe climate conditions, and logistical impediments stemming from underdeveloped infrastructure, our team demonstrated remarkable adaptability and operational efficiency.

The successful inauguration of this project signifies a pivotal juncture in SANY’s eco-conscious mining endeavors across Africa. It lays a robust groundwork for the continent’s green energy trajectory and reinforces our unwavering dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions on a global scale.

Drawing on the expertise and technological capabilities developed through this initiative, SANY is dedicated to “Illuminating Africa” at “SANY Speed.” By actively driving the implementation of additional green energy projects, SANY seeks to lead global renewable energy trends and contribute Chinese innovation to the worldwide energy transition.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/empowering-mining-with-green-innovation-sany-unveils-africas-largest-solar-storage-diesel-microgrid-302345136.html

SOURCE SANY Group

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