By Mathipa Phishego
The Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT), eMalahleni Campus, officially launched the Mpumalanga Artificial Intelligence Student Hackathon (MAISH) 2025 activation early in August. Now in its third year, the initiative is fast becoming a flagship platform for ICT students to explore real-world applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Welcoming attendees, Senyeki Marebane, Academic Manager, thanked academic leaders, industry partners from BCX and Nedbank, colleagues from the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), the MAISH organising team and student representatives. He also welcomed the 2024 winners, who returned to share their experiences. “Your achievements are truly inspiring,” he said.
The Hackathon, jointly organised by TUT and UMP with support from Nedbank, BCX, the University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP) and other stakeholders, promotes innovation, collaboration and problem-solving. It equips students with hands-on technical skills while connecting them to industry mentors who help demystify AI and guide them in addressing local challenges.
In an inspirational address, Dr Thulani Skhosana likened AI to the mythical Tokoloshi, noting how it was once seen as a kind of “superstition.” He urged students to develop African solutions for African problems, emphasising the need to move beyond reliance on global models and instead build home-grown technologies.
Student testimonies further highlighted MAISH’s impact. Lindani Mayisela and Angel Matoto, winners of last year’s competition, shared how their project, a Crop Recommendation System that uses AI to suggest crops based on soil and climate conditions, won them prizes (a Huawei smartphone and HP laptop respectively) while also shaping their academic and career growth.
“MAISH is more than a competition, it is a chance to grow, connect, and make a difference,” Mayisela said.
This year’s hackathon will see teams of ten competing from 23 - 25 October 2025, during three days of intensive learning, innovation and collaboration. A registration link was shared with students at the close of the activation.
With its strong partnerships and growing influence, MAISH continues to play a vital role in equipping young ICT professionals to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s digital transformation.
The official opening of the Mpumalanga Artificial Intelligence Student Hackathon (MAISH) 2025.