and responsible spending. Through these initiatives and achievements, it becomes evident that student innovation and entrepreneurship can contribute to community upliftment, sustainable development and social impact. TPC formed a central part of the UJ STEAM Extravaganza as part of UJ’s 20-years celebration. As part of the event, the Centre led the College of Business and Economics Innovation Exhibition, where student teams showcased technologydriven solutions to more than 2 000 visiting high school learners in contribution to UJ’s vision of being a globally recognised institution that advances innovation, research excellence, and inclusive societal impact. The Centre hosted a Data Science Bootcamp for 20 top-performing students, providing intensive training in machine learning, data analytics, and real-world problem solving. The Girls in ICT Programme in partnership with Helios Towers, encourages young women to pursue careers in technology. In-practice learning includes industry professional engagements and learning opportunities and in 2025 20 students from the Department of Applied Information Systems visited Africa Data Centres, gaining practical insights into cloud infrastructure, data storage systems, and the digital infrastructure supporting Africa’s growing digital economy. The Centre secured R600,000 in funding from JBS and Google.org to deliver cybersecurity training programmes that equip young people with critical digital security skills. In addition, MICT SETA funding totalling R720,000 supported specialised digital skills training and experiential learning opportunities for students. These initiatives strengthen the pipeline of industry-ready graduates equipped with both technical expertise and entrepreneurial capabilities. The Head of the Centre, Mr Ronny Mabokela, participated in several national and international innovation platforms as a speaker, mentor, and judge. In 2025 he was invited to present at the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI) Conference, where he shared insights on the role of Artificial Intelligence and Data in driving public sector innovation and digital transformation. The Technopreneurship Centre continues to strengthen partnerships with government, industry, and research institutions to expand innovation opportunities for students. Key collaborators include: NEMISA, Geekulcha, MICT SheLeads Hackathon, the START Fellowship Pitching Competition, and the Gauteng Youth Entrepreneurship Tour with ABSA Bank and the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute SETA, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), CSIR, Helios Towers, Google.org, Absa Bank, Young African Entrepreneurs Institute. The Centre hosted representatives from the START Fellowship (Switzerland), strengthening collaboration with international startup ecosystems. The Centre continues to expand its global footprint across Africa and internationally through collaborative innovation programmes and research partnerships. In 2025, the Centre hosted a delegation from the University of Venda to initiate collaborative research on Artificial Intelligence and Water Solutions, exploring how AI can support water management and sustainability challenges in South Africa. International networks with START Fellowship and collaborations with innovation partners across Africa, is strengthening CTP’s global innovation ecosystem. The Technopreneurship Centre collaborates with the UJ Technology Transfer Office (TTO) and external innovation partners to provide a platform where students transform ideas into impactful solutions. Several student projects progressed from concept development to earlystage prototypes and potential startup ventures through this collaboration. Through programmes in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and digital entrepreneurship, the Centre prepares students to navigate an increasingly complex digital world whilst developing technology solutions that benefit society. These initiatives contribute to cultivating the next generation of technology leaders capable of shaping Africa’s digital future and advance innovation, research excellence, and meaningful societal impact. TPC formed a central part of the UJ STEAM Extravaganza as part of UJ’s 20-years celebration 50 51 College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2025 College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2025
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