College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2023 55 The UJ Centre of Applied Data Science (CADS) proudly welcomed Dr Mark Nasila as our first Professor of Practice, effective from 1 March 2023, until 28 February 2026. Dr Nasila brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the fields of AI, data science, and analytics, garnered from his esteemed role as the Chief Analytics Officer of FNB Risk, pioneering AI systems like Manila, recognised as one of Corinium’s top 25 Global 2020 data and analytics industry achievements. His induction as a Professor of Practice elevates CADS’ reputation and his specialised expertise enhances the academic experience for our students. TALENT MANAGEMENT AND CAPACITY BUILDING At CADS, we invest in talent management and capacity building to ensure our team stays at the forefront of the latest research and technological developments. Our team comprises academics from various departments within UJ, academic and student researchers, postdoctoral research fellows, and industry partners. We believe in a culture of collaboration and therefore collaborate with experts from other institutions, including TBS Education, Sol Plaatje University, Wits, Walter Sisulu University, and NEMISA. We are continually involved in training and development opportunities to enhance our team’s skills and expertise. In 2023, we hosted an Applied Data Science workshop, hosted by Opti-NUM Solutions for our Master’s and DPhil in Applied Data Science students. Presenters included Opti-NUM Solutions, Mr Verushen Coopoo (Specialist: Data Science and Modelling at Opti-Num Solutions), Mr Phinda Hlawe (Graduate Engineer at Opti-Num Solutions), Mr Siyabonga Mhlongo (Head of Centre for Applied Data Science) and Prof Hossana Twinomurinzi (Vice Dean of Research, Innovation & Internationalisation at UJ CBE). The Centre for Applied Data Science (CADS) holds DPhil in Applied Data student immersion sessions twice per semester and 2023 was no different, traditionally conducted physically on-campus. These sessions serve as a vital platform for our doctoral candidates to showcase their progress and engage in constructive discussions with peers and supervisors. By fostering a collaborative environment, we aim to facilitate knowledge sharing and mutual learning, ultimately fostering growth and innovation within our research community. The feedback and insights gained from these sessions are invaluable to our DPhil students, serving as motivation to persevere through the challenges inherent in their studies. We recognise the significance of such interactions in sustaining momentum and driving academic excellence, acknowledging that the journey towards a DPhil can Dr Mark Nasila, Professor of Practice at the Centre for Applied Data Science, received his induction into the prestigious Golden Key International be demanding, yet ultimately rewarding. Steven Mbeya has been an integral part of the Centre for Applied Data Science (CADS) since its inception in 2022. As the Centre, we are committed to continuous improvement and professional development, and prioritise upskilling our staff members. Therefore, it is with great joy that we announce Steven’s recent accomplishment: the submission of his thesis (titled ‘Deconstructing e-loyalty in an online grocery shopping environment’) at the end of 2023, which he passed with distinction. His dedication and hard work exemplify our Centre’s values of excellence and commitment to academic growth. We eagerly anticipate Steven’s graduation, scheduled for July 2024, as he continues to contribute to the advancement of data science within our institution. POLICY AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES Throughout 2023, the Smart Mobility and Future of Work and Digital Skills research thrusts at CADS led the Centre’s active engagement in various policy and public engagement activities. These efforts were motivated by the Centre’s alignment with the Digital and Future Skills Strategy developed by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies of South Africa. CADS is well-positioned to contribute to the capacities of South Africans to meet the challenges arising from the increasing deployment and adoption of digital technologies in the economy and society. The Centre’s focus on the Future of Work and Digital Skills research thrust presents an excellent opportunity to align with the Digital and Future Skills Strategy. To this end, CADS has participated extensively in NEMISA initiatives.
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