by Kgothatso Monono
The Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT) recently hosted its annual Faculty Entrepreneurial Expo Day (FEED) at the Soshanguve South Campus. This dynamic event, aimed at fostering industry connections, promoting the faculty's offerings and encouraging student entrepreneurship highlighted the innovative projects of final-year students.
Dr Deon Duplesis ICT Assistant Dean and Research Professor, Joey Jansen Van Vuuren
The primary objective of FEED is to exhibit the cutting-edge projects developed by final-year ICT students. These projects, displayed to a host of industry partners, underscored the technical prowess and creativity of the students.
Vuyisile Memani, Computer Science lecturer and coordinator of the event, explained the importance of such exhibitions. "We aim to share the ICT skills of our students with the captains of industry and promote entrepreneurship among students," Memani said.
He added, "We believe our students are adequately technically skilled to start their own businesses. Because of the technical skills with which they are capacitated, our graduates can make an immediate impact in the workplace."
Beyond showcasing student projects, FEED also serves as an outreach initiative to grade 12 learners from nearby areas. By promoting the Faculty's courses, TUT aims to inspire learners to pursue careers in ICT, demonstrating the diverse opportunities and potential within the field.
The promotion of entrepreneurship among ICT students was a significant theme during FEED.
By encouraging students to think beyond traditional employment and consider starting their own ventures, TUT aims to cultivate a generation of innovative, business-minded graduates. This focus on entrepreneurship is particularly pertinent in the ICT field, where rapid technological advancement continually opens new avenues for creative and disruptive business ideas.
The participation of numerous organisations in the ICT sector enhanced the success of FEED. These included SOFT KINGS, Geeks4Learning, BBD, GEEKULCHA, Fluid Intellect, Celerity Holdings, RMCERI, PSIRA, CSIR and STANDARD BANK. These industry partners not only observed the projects but also interacted with the students, providing valuable feedback, potential mentorship and networking opportunities. Their presence underscored the event's significance and the high regard in which TUT's ICT Faculty is held within the industry.
FEED clearly demonstrates TUT's commitment to providing relevant and impactful education. The qualifications offered by FoICT are designed to empower students, enabling them to make significant contributions to society. By combining technical skills development with entrepreneurial training, TUT ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to navigate and lead in the ever-evolving ICT industry landscape.
Vuyisile Memane, the event coordinator.
ICT final year students showcasing their projects.
Representative from CSIR and the students.