School of Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems (SCiiS) College of Business and Economics NOVEMBER 2023 NEWSLETTER | VOLUME 13
2 Message from the Director As I step into my role as the new director of the School of Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems, I am filled with both excitement and gratitude. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation to Prof. Mpinganjira, the outgoing director, who has dedicated her expertise, passion, and unwavering commitment to the school in recent years. Her leadership has been instrumental in laying a foundation for the school’s success, and I am truly grateful for her guidance and contributions. I also extend my warmest gratitude to all SCiiS members: your expertise, creativity, and dedication are invaluable assets for our shared vision of academic excellence and innovation. I am eager to work with each of you as we reach new heights and make a positive impact in our academic community and beyond. As we approach the festive season, I extend my best wishes to each and every one of you. May this season be filled with joy, warmth, and moments of relaxation with your loved ones. Your hard work and commitment have been remarkable, and so I encourage you to take this time to rejuvenate and recharge as we prepare for the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Above all, as we look forward to the new year, the safety and well-being of our team remain a top priority. I encourage you to take every precaution to ensure your health and safety, and that of your loved ones, as we continue to work towards our shared milestones. I am truly honoured to be given the opportunity to lead this, the SCiiS community, and look forward to working alongside each of you. Let us continue to uphold the spirit of just being great at what we do, excited, collaborative, innovative, and excellent, all of which define our school. Together, we shall create a brighter future and achieve remarkable success in the years to come. Wishing you a joyous festive season and a safe return as we embark on this new chapter together. Dr Stella Bvuma Director: School of Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems (SCiiS)
3 Student News SCiiS scoops top three spots at the CBE Honours poster competition The College of Business & Economics (CBE) showcased the faculty’s outstanding BCom Honours research projects at its annual research project competition. aking place at the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), this occasion offered an opportunity for BCom (Honours) candidates to showcase their research outcomes in various domains, such as transportation challenges, services industries, management strategy formulation, and AIpowered forecasting, representing each of their respective departments. We are delighted to acknowledge Dr Ronel Toerien and Ms Shaziah Adams, the lead coordinators of the event, and extend our appreciation to the CBE team, the event’s sponsors. Their commitment and support were crucial factors in the success of the competition this year. The School of Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems (SCiiS) accomplished an unprecedented feat by obtaining the top three positions in the competition this year. Emmanuel Swatu Mbuya, a student in the Department of Applied Information Systems (AIS) and working under the supervision of Dr Patrick Ndayizigamiye, was awarded the first prize. His research project, entitled “Harnessing machine learning for predicting diabetes risk: An in-depth investigation of contributing factors”, serves as an excellent example of SCiiS’s commitment to establishing significant investigations in the domain of information systems. The Department of Marketing Management (MM) secured the remaining positions, which had a substantial effect. Second place was awarded to Nicole Mphara and Karabelo Seretse for their project entitled “Fashion brand communication on Instagram triggers consumer-based brand equity among Gen Z”. The project was supervised by Prof. Ilse Struweg. And Irfaan Baig, Rahilca Chavoos, and Aalia Variava won the third prize for their research endeavor entitled “Exploring the role of affective and calculative commitment on the perceived value–behavioural intention link within the Islamic banking industry” under the supervision of Prof. Mornay Roberts-Lombard. The Department of Information and Knowledge Management (IKM), led by Prof. Chris Rensleigh, contributed significantly to the competition’s success with their final calculations, assisted by Dr Nazeer Joseph from the Department of AIS. We extend our sincere congratulations to all the students and their supervisors on this outstanding accomplishment, which genuinely embodies the CBE faculty’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The success of this year’s competition serves to reinforce CBE’s dedication to fostering and exhibiting exceptional ingenuity and talent in the domains of business and economics. We eagerly anticipate seeing our students’ sustained development and achievements, as well as the incalculable contributions they will make to the fields of business and economics. Since the inception of the CBE research poster competition, SCiiS has proven its prominence in the top three spots, and 2023 was no exception! Department of Marketing Management 2nd & 3rd place winners Department of Applied Information Systems 1st place winner.
4 Wholesale and Retail SETA fine dining at School of Tourism and Hospitality The famous Chef Doug from the School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) put on a cooking show for the Wholesale and Retail SETA (W&R SETA) Youth on October 11, 2023. The students were blown away by what the W&R Leadership Chair: Gauteng, Dr Beate Stiehler-Mulder, and Sandile Maseko had planned. Before each dish, Chef Doug came out and discussed the meal course and the utensils, among other things. The students mixed and matched different kinds of food. The rule was that “you had to try it, take one bite, and if you didn’t like it, that was fine, but you had to try”. Chef Doug also set up winemakers to come to teach the students how to pair wines with food, how that works, the different grapes, and how they go with each other. This was a big deal for a group of youngsters from diverse backgrounds. The Chair extended words of gratitude to Chef Doug and the rest of the STH team from the bottom of her heart for making this an unforgettable event for the young people.
5 Strategic Retailing students impress with digital strategy presentations to Markham November 1, 2023 had the Bunting Road campus buzzing with activity and anticipation as students from the Strategic Retailing module presented their final projects to an esteemed panel from Markham. This significant day was the climax of the Enhancing Digital Footprint project, a hands-on learning initiative in which the students worked closely with Markham to raise the retailer’s online presence. The project, integrating academic research with practical retail exposure, allowed the students to engage in the real-world challenges faced by fashion retailers in today’s digital landscape. The presentations, evaluated by Ms Mariette Frazer; lecturer and project guide, and an external moderator, Dr Michelle van der Merwe, highlighted the students’ dedication and strategic acumen. They were joined by Mr Racy Hlahla and two Markham store managers, who hosted the students and provided professional insights into the retail industry. The students presented rich, innovative solutions that ranged from website design enhancements to targeted SEO strategies and dynamic social media campaigns. Each presentation showed a thorough understanding of the complexities of e-commerce and digital marketing in the fashion retail sector. Collaborative effort was evident in the quality of the strategies they presented. The project not only served as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application but also highlighted the university’s commitment to providing an educational experience that equips students with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. The Marketing Department thanks Mr Racy Hlahla and the Markham team for their invaluable collaboration.
6 Information Management CV competition The CV competition, held on November 1, 2023, was an engaging showcase of the skills of thirdyear Information Management students from the Department of IKM. Tasked with applying for a provided job profile through Blackboard, participants submitted professional CVs and cover letters that were tailored to the vacancy. The event aimed to reinforce the practical application of curriculum concepts, emphasising the incorporation of job-specific keywords gleaned from the job profile. Throughout the semester, students received comprehensive instruction on crafting and refining professional CVs. Emphasis was placed on the significance of honesty and integrity, aligned with the Strategic and Competitive Intelligence Professionals (SCIP) Code of Ethics. The students were also educated on the use of application tracking software (ATS) in CV composition and on the crucial role played by job-related keywords in enhancing visibility and relevance. The selection process identified the top 10 CVs, with these talented individuals progressing to the final round of the competition. Despite the initial count of 10, only seven students attended the final phase, where they faced interviews conducted by a distinguished panel comprising four Information Knowledge Management specialists and alumni: Mr Kabelo Khanye, Ms Masetuka Ntsoereng, Ms Thami Magele, and Ms Tracy Lefika. Heartfelt congratulations are extended to the outstanding achievers in the CV competition. Ms Ntsoaki Mazibuko secured the coveted first place, earning a prize of R1 500. Following closely, Ms Palesa Msimanga claimed the second spot, receiving a well-deserved R1 000. Mr Kenny Moitsi rounded out the top three, earning third place and a prize of R500. This success not only underscores the students’ dedication and proficiency, but also highlights the effective integration of theoretical knowledge into practical, realworld scenarios.
7 Coca-Cola industry project winners present at UJ undergraduate conference The third year BCom Marketing Research students took part in an industry project alongside CocaCola Company to explore the passion points of Gen Z consumers in South Africa, to determine which passion points to use, and to propose a strategy for how Coca Cola could better enhance its engagement and connect with Gen Z, for the relevance of Coca-Cola as a brand. A questionnaire was developed, and each member had to distribute it to the target population, analyse the data, and present the entire research project to Coca-Cola. The students presented their projects to Senior Director Coca-Cola (Africa), Ms Silke Bucker, and the Coca-Cola Marketing Manager (Africa), Ms Ntuthuko Mokhesi, facilitated by Dr Isolde Ward, senior lecturer (now HoD) at the Marketing Management Department, who all deliberated and choose the 2023 winning group. Congratulations to the winners, Kylie Kisten, Ani Gyulinyan, Heaven Solomon, Ismaeel Beg, Noell Swanzen, and Zoé Lufuluabo, whose winning presentation was entitled “Exploring the passion points of Generation Z in South Africa through music: Coca-Cola Creations”. The winners were then invited to the UJ Undergraduate Research Conference on October 3, 2023, where they presented their industry project findings. Applied Data Science workshop series Under the leadership of Mr Siyabonga Mhlongo, the Centre for Applied Data Science (CADS) offered a successful series of Applied Data Science workshops to their Master’s and DPhil students with the aim of providing a comprehensive under-standing of the subject matter. The workshops took place on August 18 and September 15, 2023. The workshops were hosted in collaboration with Opti-NUM Solutions, and began with an introduction of Opti-Num Solutions as a company, MathWorks, and machine learning, setting the stage for the exploration that followed. The workshops featured esteemed experts who led the students on a fascinating journey into the practical world of data science. They were Prof. Twinomurinzi Hossana (Vice Dean of Research, Innovation & Internationalisation at UJ CBE), who added an academic perspective to the discussions; Mr Verushen Coopoo (Specialist: Data Science and Modelling at Opti-NUM Solutions), who shared invaluable insights into data science and modelling; and Mr Phinda Hlawe (graduate engineer at Opti-NUM Solutions), who complemented the workshops with practical experiences and real-world applications. The CADS team extends their heartfelt gratitude to OptiNUM Solutions, the distinguished speakers, and all the participants who contributed to the success of the Applied Data Science workshop series.
8 Student exchange programme The Department of Marketing Management, in collaboration with the W&R SETA Chair, Dr Beate Stiehler-Mulder, took a noteworthy step towards enhancing its existing Memorandum of Understanding with the Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm (TUN) in Germany for 2023. The expansion involved introducing a six-week short-term exchange programme for students at the Nürnberg institution. In early September 2023, Prof. Ilse Struweg, Associate Professor and Internationalisation Coordinator in the Department of Marketing Management, accompanied five students – Lesego Mothwa, Ramaesela Mphalele, Tia Ndou, Zahenda Malindi, and Zinhle Nkosi – from various Retail and Marketing Management programmes for the initial week of this exciting venture. The students’ comprehensive programme included an intensive six-week course in German, attending lectures in the International Business Faculty, and exploring the city of Nürnberg and its surroundings. With its strategic location, Nürnberg is particularly advantageous from a retail and marketing perspective, hosting the headquarters of prominent brands such as Puma, Adidas, Faber-Castell, Staedtler, and more. As part of the students’ studies at UJ, they were tasked with completing and integrating projects that stemmed from their experiences during the TUN adventure. The value of this short-term exchange initiative extends beyond the engagement with the Bavarian culture; it lies in the enriching intercultural interactions with students visiting TUN from various parts of the world. Reflecting on this adventure, one of the participating students, Zinhle Nkosi, said: “My advice to the next group of exchange students is to be open-minded, actively participate in every aspect, and most importantly, savour the experience”. Personal branding session On14, October 2023, a personal branding session was arranged for BCom Honours (Marketing Management) students by Dawn Klatzko, the author of The art of the suit, with the goal of bridging the gap between fresh graduates and future employers. It was a cinematic experience not to be forgotten. The purpose was to assist the soon-to-be graduates in identifying their genuine and unique attributes in order to differentiate themselves from their educational background. Students had the pleasure of attending a personal brand podcast event at Arena Holdings, on a day that was brimming with energy, in a communal search for self-empowerment. The event’s core subject was discovering one’s own potential and accepting the constant transformation that comes with personal development. The stage was graced by esteemed peers from various backgrounds who shared their transformational life experiences, important lessons, and strategic ideas that were geared to personal progress. What stood out was the interactive presentation, which not only inspired students to explore their desires and goals, but also provoked profound reflection on the adventures on which the soon-to-be graduates would embark. To download the podcast, click here: bit.ly/3tCZjUK
9 Africa by Bus tour Africa by Bus is an educational tour during which our students get to visit an African country. This year the country of focus was Botswana. Applications were open only to third- and fourth-year undergraduate students in the College of Business and Economics (CBE) at the University of Johannesburg. The Department of Applied Information Systems led the initiative this year. Out of 600 applications received, 40 students were selected. Five of them were from the Department of Applied Information Systems (AIS), four from the Department of Information and Knowledge Management (IKM), and three from the Department of Marketing Management (MM). Their trip was seven days long, from 3 to 8 September 2023. We asked the students to share about their Africa by Bus Tour experience. This is what they had to say: AIS students “Our journey with the CBE Africa by Bus to Botswana was a truly transformative experience. From the warm welcome on our first day at Cresta Hotel to the insightful visits to Manyana Village, the University of Botswana, and Walmart (Builders), each day offered a deeper understanding of Botswana’s culture and history. Experiencing all these facets of Botswana, a country different from our own, impacted us in several ways.” – Ofentse Mashaba “Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind, and fills your life with stories to tell.” – Lerato Khumalo “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller – Ibn Battuta” – Warren Khumalo “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” – Innocentia Ntombela "Your biggest opportunity may be right where you are; tightly grab and appreciate every single of them"– Melissa Hlope IKM students ”From the inspiring halls of the University of Botswana to the tranquil embrace of Manyana Village, the captivating journey through Botswana’s rich history at the museum, and the vibrant city life that seamlessly melds tradition with modernity, my entire trip was a profound exploration of a nation’s past, present, and future. Standing before the Three Kings Monument, I felt the enduring spirit and unity that define Botswana, leaving me with memories that will forever resonate in my heart” – Siboniso Mthombeni “Through this trip I got to explore a new culture and learn about the history. I was exposed to different perspectives and customs. Not only that, but it fostered my own personal growth while instilling a sense of adventure that resulted in me creating memories that will last a lifetime.” – Phetole Sekgobela “Seeing the peaceful and quiet city life in Botswana was like looking at the heart of the country. I observed old traditions seamlessly blending with new ideas as people hurried through the streets, lively markets, and experienced a strong sense of cultural preservation. It made me feel like Botswana was confidently moving forward while still embracing and honouring its cherished traditions.” – Akhona Mtongana “I found the museum in Botswana to be a captivating window into the country’s past, a tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and evolution. It narrated the story of Botswana’s journey from ancient times to the vibrant present, offering me a profound appreciation for the resilience and heritage that define this remarkable nation.” – Sthando Zungu “As a student, my trip to Botswana was like a fascinating journey that taught me so much. I not only experienced the vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, but I also gained valuable knowledge in commerce, making it an unforgettable and enriching experience. Students, please don’t be afraid; the world is a classroom waiting to be explored.” – Tumelo Khumalo MM students “Go out of South Africa and you will get to see how economically poor our country is. Up to now I’m still trying to understand what our government is doing; if it was not for the Africa by Bus tour, I wouldn’t be this apprised of our economy.” – Sinovuyo Sopapaza “Travelling beyond borders ignites the flames of our souls, and in the tapestry of foreign lands, we weave the most unforgettable memories of our lives.’’ – Mahlogonolo Phasha “I have always wanted to travel abroad and see other countries, but never had one African country in mind, as I thought less of them; but thanks to the Africa by Bus tour, my perception of other African countries changed. Now I realise how quickly they are growing some without the help of western countries.” – STE Ngcobo
10 Marketing fun day! The UJ Library came alive on August 24, 2023 with a thrilling fun day for marketing mavericks! The UJ Library transformed into the ultimate play-ground for our 2nd and 3rd-year Marketing and Retail Diploma students. The heartbeat of event was the chance for our students to take a leap into their future; and what better way to do that than by rubbing shoulders with alumni currently conquering the world with their BCom Honours (Marketing Management) and MCom (Marketing Management) qualifications. Mrs Merveille Kalubi Tshidibi, the incredible brand manager for Tanqueray Gin and a former student, took the stage to impart some wisdom with her charisma and contagious enthusiasm. She shared her journey from BCom Honours to the throne of brand manager. The students were intrigued and hung on to every word, soaking in the real-deal insights about the adventure that awaits them in post-study life. After the mind-blowing talks, our students were whisked away into teams for a Minute-to-Win-It showdown! Balloons soared, spoons flipped, and cookies defied gravity on foreheads – laughter echoed through the library as students embraced the thrill of friendly competition. And guess what? The fun wasn’t just for show! Four lucky students with their enthusiastic guesses on the jellybean jar won exclusive sessions on crafting killer CVs, mastering the art of graduate programmes, and acing mockinterviews. Dr Nicole Cunningham, the mastermind behind these sessions, ensured that our students left not just entertained but also armed with skills to win on the professional battlefield! A massive thank you to every student who dived headfirst into the festivities – your enthusiasm and energy made the day unforgettable! Brace yourselves, because the Marketing Fun Day is here to stay! This exciting event is set to become a tradition in our department, promising even more inspiration and camaraderie in the years to come.
11 DPhil in Applied Data Science student immersion The DPhil in Applied Data Science student immersion was a stimulating event held by the Centre for Applied Data Science (CADS) on August 17 and 18, 2023. It was a lively gathering in which students could engage with their peers and mentors, share their research progress, and collaborate on research articles under the guidance of their supervisors. Key highlights of the event were: Peer engagement: The DPhil students seized the opportunity to connect with fellow researchers in the field. These interactions led to the exchange of innovative ideas and fostered a sense of camaraderie among the students. Research progress-sharing: Students had the chance to present their ongoing research projects. This not only allowed them to receive valuable feedback, but also served as a platform for sharing insights and difficulties. Supervisor–student collaborations: One of the highlights of the event was the collaborative research sessions with supervisors. Students and supervisors teamed up to work on research articles, leveraging their collective expertise. Networking: In addition to academic pursuits, students enjoyed networking and socialising, strengthening the bonds in our academic community. This DPhil immersion programme gave students a special opportunity to promote growth and teamwork. Clover field trip! In an effort to motivate Retail and Marketing students to attend specialised ADC workshops, 10 lucky students were selected for a field trip at Clover South Africa, which took place on July 21, 2023. We asked some of the students to share their experience at the company. This is what they had to say: “My experience at Clover was amazing. I got to learn most of the content we’ve covered in class from the horse’s mouth, which was very insightful. We took a tour through different departments, namely HR, Finance, Distribution (Logistics), and the Marketing department, which as a BCom Entrepreneurial Management student gave me full insight into how a business operates and how all the departments are interlinked and work together towards a common goal. I was fascinated to see that the working environment is filled with a lot of young people, which gives me hope that indeed one day I will also get an opportunity to work for a big corporation. Most of the staff were more than happy to explain their roles and their careers, which I found encouraging.” Thato Andrew Ntshabele Watch their short vlogs here: Covered by Tshireletso Sonia Seboco – click HERE Covered by Thato Andrew Ntshabele – click HERE
12 My trip to China Quinton Shibambo, a second-year Diploma Marketing student, entered the Chinese bridge proficiency competition, which won him the opportunity to travel to China for the summer camp. See below as he shares his experience with us: “I was one of four South Africans chosen to travel to China for culture exchange under the Chinese bridge programme from 16 to 29 August 2023. I was in Beijing from 16 to 20 August, and the first few days in Beijing were admittedly very rough. However, it became better when we started meeting the other foreigners as well as experiencing the Chinese cuisine. This is when I truly started to immerse myself in the culture, food and explored what the country has to offer. I LOVED the taste of nearly everything . From 21to 29 August I was in Shanghai, which was the highlight of my trip! I experienced the bullet train, which was amazing. I was with the Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) and being there truly made me happy; I felt like a student again, but this time it was like being a student in the movies. We were at the Hongkou Campus of SISU, and we had more freedom and time to explore the campus culture. The next few nights I experienced the night life of Shanghai and the safety of China. Walking at night and riding bicycles around the city truly was a cultural reset. The trip took me to landmarks and historical sites and allowed to me to experience life in China. China is giving students an opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture and offering further opportunities to study there as well as potentially get a job there. I come from the University of Johannesburg Confucius Institute (UJCI), which provides programmes in Chinese dance, wushu, language learning, and cuisine. Through the UJCI I joined the Chinese bridge programme, and was afforded the opportunity to travel to China, which was a beautiful lifetime experience for me.” Internships with Lions cricket team Two Advanced Diploma in Marketing students got an amazing internship opportunity with the Lions cricket team, which started on August 1, 2023. Excitement was in the air as they entered the working environment. This is what they had to say: “I am excited to share my early impressions as a Marketing intern at Lions. These initial weeks have been a journey of discovery where theory meets real-world practice. It is fascinating to see how classroom concepts translate into the dynamic world of work. From brainstorming sessions that spark creativity to collaborating with the team on crafting campaign strategies, every day brings new insights and growth opportunities. As I continue to navigate this exciting journey, I am excited to develop my marketing skills further and to contribute to exciting projects ahead.” Thokozani Mahlobo ”As a new marketing intern at the Lions, I just got the privilege to work alongside their marketing team to promote the DP World Lions Cricket brand, engage with the fans, and elevate the brand’s visibility. My responsibilities include assisting in media planning and executing marketing campaigns for matches and events, and contributing to game day experiences. Overall, this internship will nurture my passion for marketing and provide a deep appreciation for the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the success of a cricket team.” Cebelihle Gabuza
13 Another eventful year for the Technopreneurship Centre! The Technopreneurship Centre (TPC) attended and participated in a total of 13 hackathons during 2023, and won six of them. Read all about their triumphant and exciting spree throughout this second semester below: Waterstone College: Coding workshop and design thinking Arriving at the Technopreneurship Center early on October 11, 2023, 150 excited Grade 11 students from Waterstone College climbed into buses. The head of the TPC, Mr Ronny Mabokela, along with his group of knowledgeable assistants, got ready to lead the young minds through an insightful coding and design thinking workshop at the UJ APK Campus; so the workshop was sure to be quite remarkable. Eugene Ndlovu (Business Information Systems Honours student), an experienced expert in the world of design thinking, took the stage to kick off the workshop. With his dynamic presence and insightful presentation, he ignited sparks of creativity and innovation in the learners. He urged them to think beyond the conventional boundaries, to imagine and reimagine, and to see problems as opportunities for innovation. The students listened intently, their minds buzzing with new ideas and possibilities. Next, the stage belonged to Kelebogile Nethengwe, who introduced the students to the exciting realm of web development. With her expert guidance, the young learners delved into the complex world of coding and design. To wrap up this incredible day of learning, Kerin Moodley and Kamogelo Mokoteli took the stage for an engaging Python programming session. They introduced the students to the world of coding, emphasising its vast potential and seemingly limitless possibilities. As lines of code danced across the screens, the students were fascinated by the magic of programming, realising that they had the power to create and innovate. Thank you to the event organisers, Karabo Maloka, Fareea Dangor, Wendy Gertse, and Nontokozo Mokoena, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the day ran smoothly. TPC takes second place at the TCS Sustainathon On October 2-5, 2023, Technopreneurship Centre students proudly participated in the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Sustainathon, a global initiative aimed at addressing sustainable water and sanitation management issues. Among the 10 finalists, the team of Eugene Ndlovu, Emmanuel Mbuya, Chadrack Mulumba, and Buhle Mpala – all Business Information Systems Honours students from the Department of Applied Information Systems (AIS) – secured second place with their impressive presentation and innovative ideas. The team’s dedication shone brightly as they presented their ideas to make a difference to the world’s water and sanitation issues. The TCS Sustainathon was not only a platform for innovation but also a testament to the power of determination and collaboration in creating a sustainable future. The event was a promising step towards a brighter, more sustainable world, filled with innovative solutions and hope.
14 Nurturing future entrepreneurs: TPC’s engaging workshop for first-year students In a quest to inspire and empower the next generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs, the Technopreneurship Centre (TPC) hosted a captivating and interactive workshop for first-year students that was facilitated by Mr Eugene Ndlovu, TPC Ambassador, on August 18, 2023. The event proved to be an enlightening journey into the dynamic fusion of techpreneurship, leaving participants brimming with brand-new insights and a deeper understanding of their potential. The day began with a thought-provoking personality test, aptly called Discover the leader in you. The results were not just enlightening, but also revealed how understanding oneself can forge stronger connections with peers, ultimately fostering a collaborative and supportive community. One of the most eyeopening segments of the workshop was the deep dive into technology – particularly the discussion on IBM Z mainframes. Equally mind-blowing was the revelation of the staggering number of transactions these mainframes could handle per second. The joyous atmosphere created throughout the day made learning not only informative but also incredibly fun. This remarkable event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Kelebogile Nethengwe, Mwenge Lukombe, and Karabo Maloka. Mr Chadrack Mulamba, a BCom Information Systems Honours student, shared an inspiring story about how his successful startup left a permanent mark, motivating aspiring entrepreneurs to take that crucial first step in their own journeys. This workshop, filled with discovery, innovation, and support, represents a vital stepping-stone for these future tech pioneers. Geekulcha annual hackathon in collaboration with TPC On September 30, 2023, the highly anticipated Geekulcha annual hackathon welcomed developers, designers, and analysts from across the nation and from neighboring countries. Mr Mabokela was tasked to lead the artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) workshop on Day 2 of the hackathon, held in partnership with UNISA’s Computer Science department and the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI). The workshop aimed to equip beginners with essential knowledge in AI/ML with an impressive background in technology and innovation. The event took place both physically at UNISA and virtually for remote attendees. During the workshop, Mr Mabokela shared his expertise, simplifying the complex concepts of AI and ML for the eager participants. The session encouraged hands-on learning, allowing attendees to experiment with real-world applications.
15 TPC’s Team Prime bags 2nd runner-up at BCX Alibaba Cloud hackathon A unique hackathon by invitation only was hosted by BCX and Alibaba Cloud in Johannesburg, themed AI for social good, on September 16-17, 2023. This event drew tech enthusiasts from South Africa, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Kenya. The challenge was to create an AI app using Alibaba Cloud’s tools to address societal challenges. TPC’s Team Prime, made up of Kenan Kasongo, Heritier Kaumbu, Sanah Rasethaba, and Ibrahim Lukombe, took third place with an AI bot designed for interview training, aiming to combat unemployment. Their project was an inspiring example of the hackathon’s goal to use AI for positive social change. Reshal Seetahal, head of Alibaba Cloud at BCX, praised the young developers’ talents. Team Prime’s win highlighted their potential to make a lasting impact in the field. Their innovative solution represented a beacon of hope in addressing unemployment, aligning perfectly with the hackathon’s theme. Team Prime’s achievement showcased the potential of AI to create a brighter future, leaving a lasting mark in the journey to leverage AI for social good. Campus Inno8 hackathon/makerthon The Technopreneurship Centre (TPC) and the Youth ICT Council organised the Campus Inno8 hackathon/ makerthon, a tech extravaganza focused on infrastructure security in the local government, on August 11 and 12, 2023 at the University of Johannesburg. Over 70 participants, sponsored by Zadna, SAS, SAP, SALGA, and the Department of Digital Communications and Technology, converged on the UJ campus to tackle this pressing challenge. Mentors and experts provided guidance, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Participants left with newfound skills and a deeper understanding of infrastructure security issues. Team Hackletz, made up of UJ students Caleb Diba, Gradi Kabongo, Nokuhle Ngubane, and Sabelo Ndlovu, secured third place in the Campus Innov8 hackathon 2023. Their innovative solutions not only impressed the judges, but also highlighted the potent combination of teamwork, creativity, and technology. They created a solution that addressed infrastructure challenges in the country. The Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Honourable Philly Mabuyani graced the event with his presence, and addressed the innovators with an air of excitement. The event was an inspiring showcase of innovation and collaboration. Teams worked tirelessly to address the intricate problems that local governments face in securing their infrastructure, leveraging their combined expertise to develop creative solutions.
16 TPC students get a special invitation to attend a design thinking workshop On the exciting day of May 25, 2023, a dynamic group of 20 TPC students received a prestigious invitation that took them on a journey of discovery and innovation. This special invitation was for the Zhongguancun Forum Opening Ceremony in 2023, which is a gathering of brilliant minds from around the world. Scientists, entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers all came together to exchange ideas on the most cutting-edge technologies. The forum covered a wide range of topics, from the digital economy to artificial intelligence, life and health, and even carbon neutrality. It was all about pushing the boundaries of what was possible, promoting global science and technology innovation exchanges and cooperation. Zhongguancun Science Park is the first and largest science park in China, where the first Chinese private technology company and the first high-tech development zone were established. It plays an important role in combining technology and finance, stimulating a passion for entrepreneurship, attracting talent, building public service platforms for start-ups, reforming scientific and technological management mechanisms, and enhancing international science and technology cooperation. Team Aurum triumphs at ITWeb Security Summit hackathon 2023 In a riveting display of cybersecurity prowess, this year’s ITWeb Security Summit hackathon 2023 took place on May 19, 2023, and saw young hackers dedicating over 30 hours to craft innovative and secure solutions against a range of cyber threats. Hosted annually by ITWeb, this year’s theme, Trust no bot, attracted the participation of 40 individuals, including tertiary students, young cybersecurity enthusiasts as young as 12, and emerging professionals. Notably, the hackathon’s sponsors, who included Telspace, Snode, Geekulcha, and the Start-up Business Campus, offered alluring cash prizes and coveted internships with prominent South African cybersecurity firms. Standing out from the competition, Team Aurum from the TPC claimed the top spot, winning the grand prize of R20 000. Team member Sifundo Ngubane, a 3rd year BCom Information Systems student in the Department of Applied Information Systems (AIS) and dedicated member of TPC, spoke of the significance of the hackathon experience and the wealth of knowledge shared by mentors. Sifundo also secured an internship at Telspace, making it a dream come true. Congratulations, Sifundo!
17 SA gymnast Caitlin Rooskrantz books Paris 2024 spot Let’s give a standing ovation to Caitlin Roosie Rooskrantz, our very own Olympian, flying high in the gymnastics arena. Our superstar BCom Marketing student won her ticket to the Paris 2024 Olympics! It’s a victory for dedication, hard work, and chasing your dreams. We couldn’t be prouder. Service marketing and integrated marketing communication students all gathered along with lecturers from the Department of Marketing Management to sign the flag that she will take to the Olympics. The flag was handed over to Caitlin by Prof. Ilse Struweg and Ms Kathleen Storey, lecturers in the Department. Caitlin then received a bouquet of proteas from the classes. Dr Nicole Cunningham also had a teaand-cake session with Caitlin, as she will be representing South Africa in 2024 while studying her BCom fulltime. Caitlin has the full support of her classmates and Department behind her as she flies the SA flag high! Digital session with Roseneath Primary School learners On August 30, 2023, Dr Lucas Khoza, a senior lecturer and community engagement coordinator at the Department of Applied Information Systems, arranged a digital literacy skills programme. The initiative was tailored to raise the digital literacy proficiency of Grade 6 learners from Roseneath Primary School. Taking place at the Con Cowan Labs on the Bunting Road Campus, the programme unfolded in the interactive and educational ambiance of the labs. Throughout the session, learners delved into fundamental digital skills, mastering keyboard functionalities such as toggling between uppercase and lowercase letters, creating new lines, and correcting errors. The exploration extended to mouse functions, text selection, and Word settings management. The customisation of text appearance became an engaging focus, involving tasks such as changing font styles (e.g., from Calibri to Times New Roman) and adjusting the font size via a convenient dropdown menu. Learners also discovered the art of infusing creativity into their documents by exploring text colour changes using the font colour arrow. The session focused on imparting the crucial knowledge of saving documents, including the nuances of file naming and ensuring safe closure for future access. Guided by Dr Khoza, the event not only facilitated skill acquisition but also empowered the learners from Roseneath Primary School with digital literacy skills that promise to enrich and enhance their educational journey.
18 Guest lecturers Bringing industry into the classroom Drip Footwear masterclass on strategic marketing Bring on the drip! On October 21, 2023, Mr Lekau Sehoana, founder and CEO of Drip Footwear, gave a masterclass to the Strategic Marketing students. See below key lessons learnt from the masterclass, shared by Strategic Marketing student Ntandokazi Ngobese. “When we got our case study for our first second semester test and it was about Drip, we never anticipated that we would end our semester with a masterclass from Mr Lekau Sehoana, the founder and CEO of Drip Footwear. The Marketing Management Department and our lecturer (Dr Nicole Cunningham) were genius for organising the lecture, because it was greatly insightful on how to apply the theory we are learning in Strategic Marketing. We encourage them to continue organising such guest lectures for future students. We learnt how Mr Lekau developed and maintained the brand Drip, how he built customer relationships, how he learnt from his mistakes to build a successful brand, and the importance of adapting to the changes in the industry for survival. We learnt to persevere even in the difficult and unpredictable operating environments in which we may find ourselves as we either go into the industry or continue with our studies. This was a key life and business lesson for all of us. Mr Lekau’s willingness to share his experience and knowledge with us was inspirational. The real-world examples he showcased and the practical insights he shared were very informative and incredibly valuable. The Strategic Marketing group of 2023 sincerely appreciated the engaging masterclass delivered to our class. Mr Lekau’s ambition and his strides towards achieving his dreams were truly inspiring and left a lasting impact on all of us.” The students will all be receiving gifts from Drip Technological risk in organisations The third-year Business Analysis students were graced with the presence of industry guest lecturer Mr Johan Van Zyl, an executive partner in the echnology Risk Department at Ernst and Young (EY) in South Africa, on October 19, 2023. It was facilitated by Dr Shopee Dube, a senior lecturer in the Department of Applied Information Systems. The topic of the presentation was Technological risk in organisations, and Mr van Zyl’s presentation aimed to bridge the knowledge gap that often exists between business and information technology (IT), which is the core strength of EY’s teams. Mr van Zyl discussed the importance of understanding technological risk and how to manage it effectively.
19 The importance of mentorship, travel, and networking Mr Patrick Mahlangu, founder of PatOnBrands and of Lerato Agency, gave a guest lecture to the first year Information Management students on October 10 and 11, 2023. His lecture highlighted the importance of mentorship in building a sustainable career, and of understanding that the university environment provides plenty of opportunities for young people to get involved in projects that may be of interest to them. He spoke about the importance of travel and of staying curious through asking questions and consuming content outside of the prescribed textbooks and other materials. Patrick also highlighted the power of networking, which starts in class and at events on campus, and how – whether you want to do your own thing or build a successful career – networks are important to get ahead. Integrated marketing communications Tanya Peche, Senior Marketing Manager at Massmart Game, presented a guest lecture to Diploma Marketing students on October 9, 2023. Her lecture focused on integrated marketing communications, and covered subjects such as personal selling, direct marketing, sponsorship, digital marketing, and public relations. Students were highly engaged throughout the lecture, and wanted to know more about her experience in the field. Her presentation stimulated students’ interest in the subject of her lecture, and provided insightful information about how the industry puts theory into practice. The power of curiosity in business On October 10, 2023, Mr Khalid Fadal, founder of Tactical Decisions, gave a guest lecture entitled You don’t know what you don’t know: The power of curiosity in business to second-year Information Management students. He spoke about the importance of infopreneurship and how to go about effecting it. He explained in detail why great ideas fail; how better knowledge leads to better decisions; and the framework of knowledge awareness, focusing on the concepts of known knowns, unknown knowns, known unknowns, and unknown unknowns. He also spoke on mindset change and building knowledge, and showcased his tool Underdog Accelerator, which helps with ideation and building up your idea.
20 Manual testing vs automation testing Dr Tebogo Bokaba hosted a guest lecture on software testing with Mr Thabo Selep, Test Manager at Rofane Consulting, on September 27, 2023. The guest lecture provided an insightful comparison of manual and automation testing in the software testing life cycle (STLC). It covered the essentials of both testing methods, including their advantages, drawbacks, and appropriate use cases. The lecturer emphasised the importance of integrating both approaches in STLC, highlighting current trends and the impact of artificial intelligence in testing. Interactive demonstrations and real-world examples enriched the session with the students, offering practical insights into the evolving field of software testing. The art of purposeful entrepreneurship On August 22, 2023, Donovan Steenkamp, CEO at The Bean Group and a seasoned serial entrepreneur with a history of success in diverse ventures such as Bean Café and Candy Fair, gave a guest lecture to third-year BCom Information Systems students. At the heart of Donovan’s journey lies a deep commitment to family and purpose. As he shared his insights, one thing became abundantly clear: every thriving business is built on a solid foundation of intention. During his lecture, Donovan graciously shared an array of insights, from the intricacies of tax to the websites that stoke his motivation, from crucial financial aspects such as income, turnover, and cash flow to the art of fostering meaningful relationships. Donovan’s golden nugget of wisdom is to diversify your skill set. Instead of rushing to specialise in one area, gather a diverse array of skills. By building a broad foundation, you are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the business world. Once you have amassed ample knowledge, expertise, and experience, you can then integrate these facets into a powerful toolkit for success. In closing, Donovan Steenkamp’s insights underscored the art of purposeful entrepreneurship. By aligning your endeavors with a clear purpose, diligently crafting your operating model, and continually honing your skills, you pave the way for sustainable growth and impactful success. Traditional marketing is relatively no more! Xavier de Buck from Luxury Properties gave a guest lecture on August 15, 2023 to the third-year BCom Information Systems students. His presentation resounded with a bold declaration: Traditional marketing is dead! He posed a thought-provoking question, challenging the value of a R12 000 billboard when the online world offers a free reach to millions. Xavier’s wisdom illuminated a path on which the gaze of the masses is the compass, nurturing communities leads to success, and turning followers into profit is the ultimate reward. He distilled his insights into a lecture that encapsulated his philosophy: to wear multiple hats, transform content consumption into creation, and learn through mobile devices. Xavier’s counsel extended to competitive analysis, emphasising growth through learning. He championed the art of documenting one’s journey and magnifying brand exposure by generously sharing his knowledge. Engagement emerged as the heartbeat of success, responding to comments, purposeful interactions, and mastering industry hashtags. While he underscored social media’s role, he stressed its integration within a broader business strategy. The resounding theme weaving through his discourse was consistency – the key to content creation, interaction, and perpetual learning.
21 Masterclass on ‘The step-by-step process to developing consumer personas and customer journey maps’ On August 19, 2023, BCom Honours Marketing Manage-ment students were graced with the presence and expertise of Ms Keleabetsoe Rammopo, Head of Strategy at Penquin. Keleabetsoe, a seasoned senior strategist, presented an industry masterclass on The step by step process to developing consumer personas and customer journey maps. Her class was exciting and informative, and provided many industry examples from which the students took much value. As these students will be presenting their strategic marketing plans to industry, Keleabetsoe’s masterclass proved significantly helpful to brainstorming ideas for the presentation. Students were thrilled with the practical application and activities that Keleabetsoe asked them to complete, and that proved to be a good starting point for their final presentations. Keleabetsoe’s masterclass was just one of many in the Strategic Marketing Management course, which supports the students’ understanding and practical application of strategy development. We look forward to hosting more masterclasses for our Honours students.
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