College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2024 59 provoking engagements that bridged technical capability with real-world application. One of the standout academic events of the year was a two-day Forecasting Workshop held on the 14th and 15th of November 2024 at the Johannesburg Business School. The workshop, titled “Tidy Time Series Analysis and Forecasting Using R,” brought together participants seeking to deepen their capacity in analytical forecasting—an increasingly indispensable skill in both public and private sectors. This workshop was led by Professor Bahman Rostami-Tabar, a Visiting Professor in the department and a globally recognised expert in data-driven decision science. Based at Cardiff Business School in the UK, Professor RostamiTabar is renowned for his innovative work at the intersection of analytics and social good. He is the founder of the Data Lab for Social Good and the Forecasting for Social Good initiative under the International Institute of Forecasters, and he currently leads the “Uncertainty & the Future” theme at the Digital Transformation Innovation Institute. His research focuses on transforming data into actionable insights for improved planning and decision-making in complex sectors such as global health, humanitarian logistics, policy, and social sustainability. Over the two-day session, participants were introduced to the conceptual and practical foundations of tidy time series analysis—a contemporary approach to forecasting that leverages the statistical computing power of R. The workshop offered a hands-on experience, guiding attendees through the processes of cleaning, organising, and modelling time series data using modern packages within the tidyverse framework. Emphasis was placed on developing reproducible workflows that can be readily integrated into real organisational contexts, whether for strategic transport planning, supply chain resilience analysis, or broader socio-economic forecasting. What made this event particularly valuable was its accessibility and relevance to both seasoned data practitioners and those entering the field of analytics. The focus on tools that support evidencebased decision-making resonated deeply with participants from various domains, reaffirming TSCM’s commitment to equipping professionals with high-impact skills that align with global trends in digital transformation. In hosting this data-centric and highly practical workshop, the Department once again demonstrated its vision for academic excellence that is both responsive to contemporary challenges and rooted in advancing the public good. The event not only built individual and institutional capacity in forecasting but also strengthened the department’s international partnerships and reputation as a hub for socially conscious, data-informed innovation. Workshops on Qualitative Research Methods and Grant Writing by Professor Victor Gekara In April 2024, Professor Victor Gekara from RMIT University, Melbourne, facilitated two capacitybuilding workshops for postgraduate students and academic staff in the Department of Transport and Supply Chain Management (DTSCM). The first workshop, titled “Qualitative Research Methodology,” was attended by approximately 20 master’s and doctoral students. The session focused on helping students select and apply appropriate qualitative research methods to their study objectives. Using practical examples, Prof Gekara provided detailed guidance on methodological design, data collection, and analysis techniques. Students also had the opportunity to engage in oneon-one consultations with Prof Gekara to discuss their individual research projects. Several DTSCM academics also participated in the session. The second workshop addressed a critical area for academic staff: grant writing. In the context of declining public funding for universities in South Africa—driven by sluggish economic growth and rising unemployment—there is growing pressure on academics to secure external research funding. Recognising the challenges faced by emerging researchers in the Global South, Prof Gekara led a focused session on identifying funding opportunities and aligning proposals with the strategic objectives of grant-making bodies. He shared insights on effective problem formulation, proposal development, and strategies for increasing the likelihood of funding success, including building collaborations with established international research institutions. These workshops contributed meaningfully to the department’s research development efforts, equipping both students and staff with practical skills to advance their academic work. RESEARCH ACTIVITIES Urban Mobility in Emerging Markets Research Group Overview The Urban Mobility in Emerging Markets Research Group was established in the department in 2022. It comprises staff, postgraduate students, and post-doctoral research fellows. The research group focuses on urban transportation and travel
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