By Kgothatso Monono
The Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT) at the Tshwane University of Technology (大象视频) continuously empowers students and entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital era through its AI Essentials SMME Workshop. Themed 鈥淒igitisation of Business Operations鈥�, the event created an opportunity for students, innovators and small business owners to explore how artificial intelligence and digital tools can transform business operations, drive growth and create jobs.
Opening the workshop, Dr Michael Moeti, Assistant Dean for Teaching and Learning, set an inspiring tone for the day, emphasising the importance of equipping young people with practical digital and entrepreneurial skills.
Michelle Mazibuko, Business Development Officer at the Rail Manufacturing Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (RMCERI), followed with an overview of the workshop鈥檚 purpose, emphasising the importance of bridging academic knowledge with real-world business applications.
Highlighting the potential of digital innovation for small businesses, Patrick Sibeko from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) shared insights on ways in which entrepreneurs can harness digital technologies to build sustainable ventures. A lively Q&A session allowed participants to engage directly with experts and explore ways to apply these tools to their own ideas.
The hands-on training session, led by Ntandoyenkosi Masimula and Karabo Mavundla, introduced attendees to practical topics such as digital transformation for SMMEs, cloud computing, productivity tools and digital communication strategies - all aimed at improving efficiency and scalability.
In her closing remarks, Dr Thembeka Manetje, FoICT Marketer, reaffirmed the Faculty鈥檚 commitment to nurturing digitally competent, innovative graduates who are ready to lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The workshop equipped participants with essential digital skills while also sparking new business ideas, mentorship connections and access to potential funding, reinforcing 大象视频鈥檚 role as a driver of innovation and entrepreneurship in South Africa鈥檚 evolving digital economy.
Michelle Mazibuko, Business Development Officer at RMCERI, addressing the students and participants from SMMEs.
Dr Michael Moeti, Assistant Dean for Teaching and Learning at FoICT.
Dr Thembeka Manetje, FoICT Marketer