TUT co-hosts first Biennial Interdisciplinary Conference of Business and Information

TUT, with Durban University of Technology, hosted the first Biennial Interdisciplinary Conference on Business and Information Management in Umhlanga from 3–4 October 2024, focusing on 4IR and global d

Dr Smangele Pretty Moyane, Prof. Paul Edmund Green, Dr Estelle Bruhns. "This event marks the dawn of a new era in our academic journey, as we unite with our esteemed partners from DUT," said Dr Estelle Bruhns from TUT’s Department of Business and Information Management and project leader.

Dr Smangele Moyane, DUT’s Head of the Department of Information and Corporate Management, emphasised that the inaugural conference symbolises a milestone of innovation and collaboration, showcasing the institutions’ shared commitment to advancing knowledge in the rapidly evolving fields of business and information management.

In light of the ongoing fourth industrial revolution, scholars, practitioners and industry leaders from diverse backgrounds convened to explore the dynamic intersection of business and information management. The conference aimed to bring together professionals from academia, industry and government to discuss topics such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data, cybersecurity and more.

Dr Smangele Pretty Moyane, Dr Estelle Bruhns The keynote address delivered by Prof Paul Edmund Green from the Sol Plaatjies University of Technology on the opening day addressed “Navigating Business and Information Realities in the Age of Global Disruption”. According to Prof Green, the conference represented a critical juncture for all present to reflect on the intersection of business, information and global disruption. He spoke about the challenge to navigate this complex terrain with insight, agility and a readiness to embrace change.

On day 2 of the conference, Dr Prosper Kweku Hoeyi, Head of the Department of Business Support Studies at the Central University of Technology, opened the event with his keynote address, ‘The noise of technology in the information age: Keyness and the Tower of Babel’. He higlighted that while economic theory has always acknowledged the power of technology to minimize human effort (labour) in the production process, it has never seemingly affirmed the noise that the wheezing sound of technology sometimes makes, even if technology causes disproportionate increases in output and development.

During the two-day conference, 30 peer-reviewed papers were presented and three plenary sessions were held simultaneously, focusing on different sub-themes. The discussions were thought-provoking and provided valuable insights, contributing to advancing the field of Business and Information Management Realities in a World of Global Disruption of 4IR and Beyond.

The gala dinner on the first day of the event, "Cultural Diversity in the Business Environment", encouraged delegates to wear attire reflecting their cultural backgrounds to celebrate the theme of Cultural Diversity. 

According to Dr Bruhns, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is a time of major transformation and unpredictability for businesses and the academic sector. By comprehending the challenges and opportunities brought about by this disruptive era, universities can prepare more effectively for the future and thrive in the new normal.  

Dr Smangele Pretty Moyane, Prof. Paul Edmund Green, Dr Estelle Bruhns. Ms Carter, Dr Harmse, Ms Ramajoe, Dr van Vuuren Marais, Ms Motsoko, Dr Bruhns, Dr Thomas, Ms van der Merwe