By Kgothatso Monono
Brimming with energy, creativity and forward-thinking spirit, the Faculty of ICT鈥檚 annual Faculty Expo and Entrepreneurial Day (FEED) returned to the Tshwane University of Technology's Soshanguve Campus on 17 July 2025 -this time, bigger and bolder than ever.
Held during the Faculty鈥檚 AI Week, FEED 2025 was more than just a showcase; it was a celebration of innovation, collaboration and student-led entrepreneurship. What began in 2018 as a modest Department of Computer Science initiative, has since blossomed into a flagship event embraced across the Faculty. This year marked an exciting new chapter with the event鈥檚 first-ever partnership with the Cooperative Education Directorate - a move that elevated both its scope and impact.
Themed "Cooperative Achievement", FEED 2025 illustrated just how powerful teamwork and shared purpose can be. Multiple teams contributed to the event鈥檚 success, with standout efforts from the Cooperative Education Directorate, led by Dr Roelien Brink and Lorika Kruger, who masterfully coordinated key elements. On the Faculty side, Hannes Retief was commended for his exceptional work on sound and multimedia, which brought energy and polish to the event atmosphere.
Vuyisile Memani, Lecturer and WIL Manager in the Department of Computer Science and lead organiser for the Faculty, highlighted the strong industry participation as one of the event鈥檚 most impactful features. Several companies exhibited their work and engaged meaningfully with students and staff. A particularly proud moment came from the participation of four student-run businesses, developed and supported by the Rail Manufacturing Centre of Entrepreneurship & Rapid Incubator (RMCERI) - a 大象视频-hosted incubator backed by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA). Their presence underscored the Faculty鈥檚 commitment to nurturing student entrepreneurship in real, tangible ways.
Vuyisile Memani, Lecturer and WIL Manager in the Department of Computer Science and lead organiser for the Faculty
Final-year students also took the spotlight, presenting innovative projects that were judged by industry representatives. The top two projects were awarded prizes, reinforcing the Faculty鈥檚 mission to bridge academia with industry expectations and opportunities.
In an inspiring effort to extend the excitement beyond university borders, local high school learners, who were adopted by the Faculty as part of its outreach initiatives, were invited to attend. Their participation offered early exposure to the world of ICT and entrepreneurial thinking.
FEED 2025 was more than an event, it demonstrated what is possible when collaboration, innovation and community come together. With momentum on its side and new partnerships paving the way, the future of FEED looks set to redefine what academic innovation and entrepreneurship can achieve.
Students visiting various stalls to get information about specific companies and their requirements.
ICT adopted Schools of Specialisation learners
ICT adopted Schools of Specialisation learners visiting the various exhibitions.