Future Research (10th edition) eMagazine by University of the Western Cape

FUTURE RESEARCH

FOREWORD DR CLEMENT NYIRENDA

DIRECTOR OF eRESEARCH UNIT

DVC: RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

OFFICE

This 10th edition of our eMagazine celebrates the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) unwavering commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). It showcases how UWC’s dedication to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement fuels progress in these crucial areas.

The featured initiatives exemplify UWC’s comprehensive approach to tackling complex societal challenges. From enterprise development programs empowering entrepreneurs through mentorship to groundbreaking research in labor economics, our faculty and researchers are at the forefront of building a more equitable and prosperous society.

UWC’s contributions shine through their interdisciplinary nature. The CoLab for eInclusion and Social Innovation’s work in digital inclusion, the “Topology for Tomorrow” mathematical research, and the UWC Innovation Hub’s Immersive Zone all demonstrate how cutting-edge technology and academic expertise can address real-world issues, directly aligning with SDG 9.

eRESEARCH

Our commitment to early childhood development, championed by the UWC Research Chair in ECD, underscores the importance of investing in future generations. By nurturing our youngest citizens, we cultivate the innovators and leaders who will drive economic growth (SDG 8)

The synergy between academic excellence and practical application is evident throughout this edition. UWC’s partnerships with industry, government, and community organizations are creating tangible impacts. The UWC-Samsung Future Innovation Lab, for instance, upskills unemployed youth, while collaborations advance digital enhancements focusing on Open Data Platforms in local government, directly contributing to SDG 9

Looking ahead, the eResearch Unit envisions exciting projects that will further propel UWC’s research capabilities and impact in SDGs 8 and 9. These include:

1. A university-wide data management platform to facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration and data sharing, crucial for advancements in various fields (SDG 8 & 9)

2. Implementation of advanced machine learning algorithms to analyze complex datasets, driving innovation across disciplines (SDG 9)

3. A virtual research environment fostering seamless collaboration between UWC researchers and international partners, propelling knowledge exchange (SDG 9)

4. Establishment of a high-performance computing cluster to support computationally intensive research across disciplines, a cornerstone for scientific breakthroughs (SDG 9)

These future endeavors will not only bolster UWC’s research infrastructure but also create new opportunities for impactful research aligned with SDGs 8 and 9.

As we celebrate the achievements highlighted in this eMagazine, we recognize the critical role of higher education institutions in driving sustainable development. UWC’s efforts seamlessly align with the ethos of eResearch, leveraging digital technologies to amplify the reach and impact of our research endeavors, ultimately building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

We invite you to explore the pages that follow and join us in celebrating the transformative power of knowledge, technology, and collaboration.

MR RENIER GROSCH

Mr Renier Grosch

Department of Management and Entrepreneurship

Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

Enterprise Development Initiatives in the Western Cape: Empowering Entrepreneurs through Mentorship and Coaching for SDG 8

ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN THE WESTERN CAPE: EMPOWERING ENTREPRENEURS THROUGH MENTORSHIP AND COACHING FOR SDG 8

Enterprise development initiatives are reshaping the economic landscape, particularly in the West Coast region, by empowering entrepreneurs through innovative mentorship and coaching programs. These initiatives, aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) and South Africa's Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act, are fostering sustainable economic growth and creating pathways to inclusive employment.

Enterprise development initiatives are reshaping the economic landscape, particularly in the West Coast region, by empowering entrepreneurs through innovative mentorship and coaching programs. These initiatives, aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) and South Africa’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act, are fostering sustainable economic growth and creating pathways to inclusive employment.

At the forefront of this movement is Renier Grosch, an academic from the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town. Mr Grosch’s community engagement work exemplifies the transformative potential of well-structured enterprise development programs. This community engagement initiative was endorsed via an SBC Enterprise and Supplier Development Agency. The opportunity was given to their early-stage entrepreneurs. “Our approach is holistic,” Mr Grosch explains. “We’re not just teaching business basics; we’re cultivating resilient, scalable enterprises capable of driving long-term economic growth.” This comprehensive methodology encompasses business modeling, financial literacy, market research, and strategic planning – essential components for sustainable business success.

At the forefront of this movement is Renier Grosch, an academic from the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town. Mr Grosch's

The significance of these initiatives extends beyond individual business success. By aligning with SDG 8, which promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and the B-BBEE Act, which aims to increase economic participation among historically disadvantaged groups, these programs are addressing broader societal challenges.

The B-BBEE Act, particularly through its Code of Good Practice, emphasizes the importance of enterprise and supplier development. This legislative framework incentivizes established companies to support early-stage entrepreneurs, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits the entire economic ecosystem. His mentorship program is a case in point. Entrepreneurs are guided through the intricacies of business modeling, helping them identify value propositions, understand customer segments, and map key activities and resources.

He helps entrepreneurs develop robust business models by identifying value propositions, understanding customer segments, and mapping key activities and resources. This comprehensive approach ensures that businesses are built on a solid foundation. Entrepreneurs are guided in formulating clear business strategies and executing them effectively. This involves setting realistic goals, developing action plans, and monitoring progress, which are critical for long-term success. Understanding financial principles is essential for any business. He firmly believes that educating entrepreneurs on financial planning, budgeting, and cash flow management, will ensure they make informed decisions.

Entrepreneurs learn to conduct market research, understand customer needs, and adapt their products or services accordingly. This customer-centric approach is vital for business sustainability. Access to a network of industry contacts and potential partners can significantly boost an entrepreneur’s prospects. Providing these connections facilitates collaborations that can lead to growth opportunities. The business landscape is dynamic and ever-changing. The importance of resilience and adaptability, preparing entrepreneurs to pivot when necessary, and capitalise on emerging trends is a key aspect of his mentoring approach. Renier’s view is that aligning enterprise development initiatives with SDG 8 and the principles of the B-BBEE Act has the potential to enhance their effectiveness. SDG 8 emphasises inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. By integrating these principles, mentoring programmes can ensure that the benefits of economic growth are widely shared and that all individuals have access to opportunities for decent work. The B-BBEE Act’s focus on enterprise and supplier development ensures that black-owned businesses receive the support needed to thrive. By providing financial and non-financial support, measured entities help create a more inclusive economy where historically disadvantaged groups can participate meaningfully.

Mentoring programmes encourage entrepreneurs to adopt inclusive hiring practices, ensuring that their businesses provide employment opportunities to diverse groups, including women, youth, and marginalised communities. Additionally, by promoting sustainable business practices, mentors can help entrepreneurs contribute to broader economic and social development goals. He concludes that enterprise development initiatives underpinned by the principles of the B-BBEE Act and guided by experienced mentors are pivotal in nurturing early-stage entrepreneurs. Through comprehensive coaching and mentoring, these initiatives equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed to build sustainable and thriving businesses. Aligning these efforts with SDG 8 further amplifies their impact, fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth that benefits the entire community. As more measured entities and seasoned professionals engage in such initiatives the Western Cape’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is poised for significant advancement and prosperity.

MRS LYDIA KIMANI - LECTURER

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS

FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

ADVANCING SDGS THROUGH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RESEARCH

Lydia has been involved in all three areas mentioned in the contribution. I was part of training smallscale farmers on creating digital platforms for their businesses. My current PhD research is focusing on digital workplace learning for SMEs. Also, I teach the modules that introduced SDGs in the curricula.

In an era of rapid technological advancement, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) is taking bold steps to bridge the digital divide and promote sustainable development. By aligning its efforts with UN Sustainable Development Goals 8 and 9, UWC is driving innovation, economic growth, and digital inclusion through targeted research and community engagement initiatives. At the heart of UWC’s approach is a vision of empowerment. Imagine a rural farmer showcasing produce to national buyers via smartphone, or small businesses competing globally through digital learning. These aren’t distant dreams, but realities UWC is actively working to create.

Take, for instance, the groundbreaking project led by Prof Osden Jokonya from the Department of Information Systems. In collaboration with the Western Cape’s Department of Agriculture, this initiative is revolutionizing how smallholder farmers engage with markets. By providing digital training and support for e-commerce platform creation, the project empowers farmers to leverage technology, access new markets, and improve their economic prospects. But UWC’s impact extends beyond agriculture. Recognizing the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa’s competitive digital landscape, the university is conducting vital research on digital workplace learning (DWPL). This empirical study aims to develop a framework guiding SMEs in workforce upskilling, enabling them to thrive in the digital age.

Education is another key focus area. The Information Systems department has integrated SDGs into its curriculum, challenging students to create technology solutions for SMEs that address real-world problems. This innovative approach not only enhances students’ technical and problem-solving skills but also fosters a symbiotic relationship between academia and industry. The ripple effects of these initiatives are far-reaching.

By equipping farmers and SMEs with digital skills and innovative solutions, UWC is supporting broader economic growth, creating job opportunities, and promoting stability across communities. UWC’s approach demonstrates the power of universities to drive meaningful change. By bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application, the university is turning the abstract goals of the SDGs into tangible benefits for communities.

As we look to the future, the potential impact of these initiatives is immense. A more digitally inclusive society means greater economic opportunities, improved access to education and healthcare, and enhanced quality of life for countless individuals. It’s a future where technology serves as a great equalizer, breaking down barriers and opening doors that were once closed. UWC’s work serves as a model for how institutions of higher learning can contribute to sustainable development. Through strategic alignment with SDGs, innovative research, and active community engagement, universities can play a pivotal role in shaping a more equitable and prosperous world.

In the end, UWC’s initiatives are about more than just technology or economic growth. They’re about empowering people, transforming communities, and building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age. It’s a powerful reminder that when we align our efforts with broader goals of sustainability and inclusion, we can create lasting, meaningful change.

Elevating Expertise, Nurturing Leadership.

DR MERON A. OKBANDRIAS

SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT (SOG) FACULTY OF ECONOMIC & MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

ADVANCING DIGITAL INNOVATION IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, information and communication technology (ICT) has become a powerful tool for reimagining business processes, products, and sustainable economic growth. Dr Meron A. Okbandrias, from the School of Government in the Faculty of Economic & Management Science, is at the forefront of research exploring how digital innovations in the public sector, particularly in local government, can drive progress towards Sustainable Development Goals 8 and 9.

Dr Okbandrias’s research focuses on the transformative potential of technology in urban environments. Cities worldwide are leveraging technological advancements to enhance mobility, promote environmental sustainability, upskill residents for the knowledge economy, and improve service delivery. South African cities are no exception, with efforts aligned with the national Open Data strategy, based on the National Integrated ICT Policy White Paper (2016) and the National Data and Cloud Policy of South Africa (2024).

At the heart of Dr Okbandrias’s current project is an assessment of Open Data platforms in the City of Cape Town (CCT) and eThekwini municipality. These platforms, rooted in open data and smart city strategies, provide crucial information on infrastructure expenditure, sector-based economic data, and indicators for future municipal investment. They serve dual purposes: enhancing transparency and accountability while offering valuable data on municipal services.

Open data is a cornerstone of smart city environments and the knowledge economy. Dr Okbandrias emphasizes that data should be shared, reshared, and repurposed with appropriate privacy safeguards. This approach fosters an ecosystem of businesses operating along the data value chain, creating innovation-driven employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, particularly for tech-savvy youth.

The research methodology involves analyzing the platforms and collecting data from municipal officials, businesses, and residents to understand the impact of Open Data platforms on local economies. Preliminary findings indicate that the CCT Open Data platform adheres more closely to Open Data principles compared to eThekwini’s platform, generating more consistent and diverse data.

Dr Okbandrias notes that businesses in Cape Town are beginning to capitalize on these opportunities, although the platforms are still maturing. The CCT’s efforts align with its policy (Policy number 27781) to enhance data-driven governance and decision-making holistically.

To maximize the potential of these initiatives, Dr Okbandrias recommends that both municipalities collaborate closely with data scientists, invest in youth training for big data analysis, and conduct comprehensive needs analyses of local businesses. These steps are crucial for increasing entrepreneurship and employment opportunities in the digital age.

The research aims to enhance understanding of the current implementation of Open Data strategies, assess stakeholder perceptions of Open Data platforms’ value, and evaluate their contribution to decent work and economic growth. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical application, Dr Okbandrias’s work exemplifies how universities can drive meaningful change in line with sustainable development goals.

As cities continue to evolve in the digital era, research like Dr Okbandrias’s plays a vital role in shaping policies and practices that harness the power of technology for inclusive economic growth. It underscores the potential of Open Data initiatives to create new opportunities, foster innovation, and ultimately contribute to a more prosperous and sustainable urban future.

PROF

DEREK YU

Prof Derek Yu Chairperson in the Department of Economics, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

CHAIRPERSON IN THE DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS, FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

ILLUMINATING LABOUR ECONOMICS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Prof Derek Yu, Chairperson in the Department of Economics at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, has been at the forefront of crucial research in Labour Economics, focusing on the critical goal of achieving full, productive employment and decent work for all. His work directly addresses Sustainable Development Goal 8, aiming to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth while alleviating poverty and inequality.

Over the past five years, Prof Yu has led and contributed to several groundbreaking studies that shed light on various aspects of South Africa’s labour market. His research spans both the formal and informal sectors, utilizing a range of data sources to provide comprehensive insights into the country’s employment landscape.

Over the past five years, Prof Yu has led and contributed to several groundbreaking studies that shed light on various aspects of South Africa's labour market. His research spans both the formal and informal sectors, utilizing a range of data sources to provide comprehensive insights into the country's employment landscape.

Two of Prof Yu’s studies delved into the often-overlooked informal sector, specifically examining the working conditions of plastic recycling workers and waste pickers. These primary survey-based studies revealed concerning trends of underemployment, poor working conditions, and extremely low remuneration among these workers. This research highlights the urgent need for policy interventions to improve the livelihoods of those in the informal economy.

Illuminating Labour Economics in South Africa

Another significant study utilized the Survey of Employers and Self-Employed (SESE) data to compare informal entrepreneurial activities between youth and adults. The findings paint a worrying picture of youth vulnerability in the informal sector, with young entrepreneurs more likely to lack business records, internet access, and year-round business activity.

Prof Yu’s work with the National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS) data has been particularly illuminating. One study tracked the transition of workers between formal and informal sectors, revealing that only 27% of informal sector workers successfully transitioned to the formal sector over a six-year period, with a clear bias towards highly educated white males.

Another NIDS-based study examined the persistence of unemployment, finding that African women with incomplete secondary education in certain provinces are at the highest risk of long-term unemployment.

Perhaps most notably, Prof Yu’s research using the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) data led to the development of a multidimensional employment index. This pioneering work considered 18 indicators across seven categories to provide a comprehensive measure of employment quality. The results starkly illustrate the disparities in employment quality across demographic and geographic lines, with highly educated, white males in urban areas enjoying significantly better employment conditions.

Prof Yu’s body of research provides crucial insights for policymakers and stakeholders working towards more inclusive and equitable employment in South Africa. By illuminating the challenges faced by informal workers, the barriers to formal sector entry, the persistence of unemployment for certain groups, and the overall quality of employment, his work lays the foundation for targeted interventions and policy reforms.

As South Africa grapples with high unemployment rates and persistent inequality, research like Prof Yu’s is essential for informing evidence-based policies. His work not only contributes to academic understanding but also provides practical insights that can drive meaningful change in the labour market, ultimately supporting the country’s progress towards sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

PROF DAVID HOLGATE

THE UWC-AIMS RESEARCH CHAIR IN MATHEMATICS AND APPLIED MATHEMATICS

FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES

“TOPOLOGY FOR TOMORROW: UWC’S MATHEMATICAL INNOVATION HUB DRIVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT”

At the University of the Western Cape (UWC), the Research Chair of the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) is pioneering an approach to mathematics that aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under the banner “Topology for Tomorrow,” this initiative is advancing SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by fostering mathematical innovation and cultivating a skilled workforce for the future.

Topology, the study of shapes and structures that persist under continuous deformation, may seem abstract, but its applications are crucial for technological advancement and economic growth. By transforming UWC into a nexus for topology research and outreach, the Research Chair, in collaboration with AIMS, is laying the groundwork for innovative industries and infrastructure development (SDG 9).

The second national Topology for Tomorrow workshop (T4T 2023) in December 2023 exemplified this commitment. Over 40 postgraduate students and emerging academics from across South Africa engaged with international experts, including Chair David Holgate, in lectures and problem-solving sessions. This event not only advanced mathematical knowledge but also enhanced the skills of future workers and innovators, supporting SDG 8’s goal of promoting sustained, inclusive economic growth. March 2024 saw a specialized workshop on Topological Data Analysis (TDA) within the Siyakhula Festival of Mathematics at AIMS. TDA, which applies topological methods to uncover the shape

of data, represents a cutting-edge field with significant potential for industry innovation (SDG 9). The workshop featured global experts like Professor Ulrike Tillmann from Cambridge University, offering insights on “Seeing data through the eyes of a topologist” and demonstrating the industrial applications of advanced mathematics.

A June workshop united mathematicians from Imperial College, London, and local universities to explore interdisciplinary research opportunities. This collaboration embodies SDG 9’s emphasis on fostering innovation and highlights the role of international partnerships in driving technological progress.

These initiatives have created valuable opportunities for postgraduate students, directly contributing to SDG 8’s focus on youth employment and skills development. PhD candidate Siyabonga Mthimkulu’s invitation to the Heidelberg Laureates’ Forum in Germany and Bria Razanaparany’s attendance at a TDA conference at Oxford showcase how the program is preparing students for high-level careers in STEM fields.

The partnership with AIMS amplifies the research chair’s pan-African influence, promoting regional integration and knowledge transfer crucial for sustainable industrialization (SDG 9). By facilitating interdisciplinary expansion, the program is equipping young mathematicians with the diverse skills needed in an evolving job market (SDG 8).

As the research chair grows, it continues to harness mathematics’ power to drive innovation and economic growth. By creating opportunities for students and young academics in advanced mathematics, UWC is addressing the skills gap in STEM fields and contributing to the development of resilient infrastructure and sustainable industries across Africa.

Through “Topology for Tomorrow,” UWC is not just studying mathematical structures—it’s structuring a future where mathematical innovation fuels sustainable development, decent work opportunities, and technological advancement across the continent.

Prof David Holgate with Prof Ulrike Tillmann at the Topology for Tomorrow workshop during the Siyakhula Festival.

PROF TREVOR MOODLEY

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONAL

PSYCHOLOGY (FACULTY OF EDUCATION),

UWC RESEARCH CHAIR IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (ECD)

“BUILDING TOMORROW’S LEADERS: THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH

AFRICA”

In the quest for sustainable development, few investments yield returns as profound as those made in Early Childhood Development (ECD). As South Africa grapples with its unique challenges, the nurturing of its youngest citizens emerges as a cornerstone for building a resilient, innovative, and economically vibrant future.

Quality ECD programmes are globally recognized as pivotal in shaping capable adults ready to tackle local and global challenges. While ECD is directly addressed by Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), its success is inextricably linked to the realization of all SDGs. From an ecosystemic perspective, the conditions fostering young children’s growth today will determine the caliber of tomorrow’s parents, workers, citizens, and leaders.

SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) play particularly significant roles in ECD’s landscape. Paradoxically, those tasked with this crucial developmental work often face challenging conditions themselves. The South African ECD workforce, mirroring global trends, is characterized by inadequate training, insecure employment, poor remuneration, and insufficient resources.

The 2021 South African ECD Census paints a sobering picture: just over half of ECD practitioners possess relevant qualifications, while more than a fifth have none. This underscores a pressing need for investment in practitioner development, not only to enhance the quality of ECD but also to create decent work opportunities within the sector itself.

The impact of quality ECD extends far beyond early years. Children who benefit from these programmes are less likely to drop out of formal schooling, increasing their chances of higher qualifications and, consequently, better-paid work and economic independence. However, the census revealed a significant barrier: most Early Learning Programmes in South Africa charge fees, making them inaccessible to many in a country grappling with high unemployment and poverty rates.

This accessibility gap perpetuates a cycle of poverty. Without ECD, children from disadvantaged backgrounds face higher risks of school dropout and diminished employment prospects, further entrenching economic disparities. Breaking this cycle requires a concerted effort to address the multifaceted challenges facing ECD provision. Given South Africa’s stark economic inequalities, a collaborative approach is imperative. The government must partner with businesses to invest comprehensively in ECD – from providing free, quality training programmes for practitioners to improving working conditions and resources, especially in marginalized communities.

By focusing on SDGs 8 and 9 in the context of ECD, South Africa can make significant strides towards achieving SDG 4’s target of ensuring all children have access to quality early childhood development by 2030. This approach not only addresses immediate educational needs but also lays the groundwork for a more productive, innovative, and economically stable society.

In essence, investing in ECD is not just about preparing children for primary education; it’s about building the foundations of a capable and prosperous nation. As South Africa navigates its complex socio-economic landscape, prioritizing ECD emerges not as an option, but as an imperative for sustainable development and a brighter future for all.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AT UWC: DRIVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

THROUGH INNOVATION AND INCLUSIVITY

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has long been at the forefront of community engagement, recognizing its crucial role in fostering sustainable development and social progress. In this 10th edition of our eMagazine, we spotlight our efforts aligned with two pivotal Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

At UWC, we believe that academic institutions have a unique responsibility to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Our community engagement initiatives serve as a testament to this commitment, showcasing how innovative thinking and collaborative efforts can drive economic growth, create decent work opportunities, and build resilient infrastructure.

Through partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and grassroots organizations, UWC is actively contributing to the development of a more inclusive and sustainable economy. Our projects range from supporting small-scale entrepreneurs and promoting skills development to pioneering research in emerging industries and sustainable technologies.

In this section, you will discover how UWC’s faculties, students, and partners are working together to:

1. Foster innovation ecosystems that create job opportunities and drive economic growth

2. Develop skills-training programs that prepare our community for the jobs of tomorrow

3. Collaborate on infrastructure projects that enhance connectivity and productivity

4. Support sustainable industrialization through research and knowledge transfer

5. Promote inclusive economic models that leave no one behind

These initiatives not only demonstrate UWC’s dedication to the SDGs but also highlight our role as a catalyst for positive change in our communities. By integrating academic excellence with real-world impact, we’re helping to build a future where decent work, economic growth, and innovative infrastructure are accessible to all.

These transformative projects celebrate the power of community engagement in shaping a more prosperous and equitable society.

The CoLab for eInclusion and Social Innovation

Researchers:

The current acceleration of digital technology is reshaping the societal and business landscape. The affordances of technological developments undoubtedly contribute towards remarkable socioeconomic gains and improved quality of life. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development acknowledges digital technologies as crucial cross-cutting drivers in achieving the SDGs.

However, digital technology is not neutral. Despite the multiple benefits and potential for transforming the economy, society, and institutions as envisioned in the SDGs, the advantages of these technologies are unequally distributed. This is particularly relevant in South

Africa as the country continues to face the enduring challenges of the digital divide.

The CoLab for eInclusion and Social Innovation, a transdisciplinary applied research unit, aims to foster an inclusive and equitable digital society through its research agenda and targeted digital skills interventions. All our initiatives operate within a multi-sectoral network spanning national government, business, communities, and national and international research partners (Vrije Universiteit Brussel and University of Ghent). At its core, the CoLab’s research and change agent agenda focuses on the intersection between digital transformation and particular development goals. (SDGs 5, 8, 9, 10 and 17)

Left to right - Dr Wouter Grove (Future Innovation Lab Programme Manager), Dr Natasha Katunga (Researcher), Dr Leona Craffert (Director), Dr Carlynn Keating (Researcher)

The UWC-Samsung Future Innovation Lab is a good demonstration of the viability of this partnership approach to address the SDGs. This 10-year cross-sectoral partnership initiative is enabled by the Samsung EEIP Research and Development Programme, situated within the R&I portfolio. This digital skills and employment accelerator helps facilitate unemployed youth’s transition into the world of work through a structured 10-month digital skills intervention and internship programme (SDGs 5 and 8). The intervention consists of software development and social innovation short courses, intensive industry engagements, life skills development and wrap-around student support. Course content is highly responsive to industry demand and, through the timely inclusion of emerging technology skills (i.e., Gen AI and its application for societal good), enhances students’ marketability and supports industry partners’ response to new market opportunities (SDG 9).

As the majority of (Future Innovation Lab) FIL students lack the requisite social capital, significant

time and energy are invested in developing a supportive business ecosystem around the programme to facilitate student absorption into the world of work. Continuous M&E ensures programme focus and agility. The infographic below depicts the outcome for three years.

The industry has acknowledged the FIL as a successful model for addressing youth unemployment and the industry’s digital skills deficit. The CoLab team is supporting the implementation of this model at the University of Limpopo. The FIL is anchored in our broader national digital transformation contribution, continually advocating for a coherent and equitable approach towards an inclusive digital society. Recent national policy-related research includes a Digital Skills Framework (DSFOne) for cross-sectoral implementation and the digital exclusion realities of vulnerable groupings. Current initiatives include the coordination of the GIZ-funded AI maturity assessment framework for South Africa and the development of the VLIR-UOS-funded Digital Inclusion scale (DISA).

CoLab Team:

Back: Left to right - Ishmael Sikhikhi (Intern), Dr Wouter Grove (Future Innovation Lab Programme Manager), Dominique Goch (Student Support), Jason Fortuin (Operations)

Front: Left to right - Dr Natasha Katunga (Researcher), Dr Leona Craffert (Director), Crystal Adams (Intern), Dr Carlynn Keating (Researcher)

DIRECTOR: DR LAURINE PLATZKY

(SPECIAL PROJECTS)

BRINGING THE FUTURE CLOSER: THE CONTRIBUTION OF UWC’S IMMERSIVE ZONE TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

UWC’s Innovation Hub (UIH) is a worldleading facility for learning, teaching, research, and development, using the rapidly developing technologies of augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR).

Since the Rector’s Inaugural Tour of the Hub in June 2023, over 700 visitors from academia, government, industry, international institutions, and the interested public have experienced the excitement of our astonishing AR/VR offerings.

Our vision is to be “widely recognised as a leading educational facility for augmented and virtual reality in Africa, where UWC innovators partner with public and private sectors to develop applications and solutions that address contemporary challenges to transform lives and serve the greater public good”. This closely reflects UWC’s vision and our alignment with

the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) as we offer new and advanced ways of learning and teaching, interactive research, and increasing accessibility to knowledge using previously unimagined immersive techniques.

The UIH focuses on using this technology to contribute to a better world. For example, we work with future-focused collaborators, in renewable energies, building social cohesion, and reducing inequality and poverty. We attract like-minded partners in improving understanding and introducing responsible solutions to socioeconomic and environmental challenges. One practical example is the Hub’s promotion and use of VR training for wind energy.

To showcase the role of technology in understanding the past, present, and future, the Hub works with a range of partners, including UWC entities, not-for-profit institutions, government, and responsible commercial ventures.

These include:

Unboxing the Mayibuye Archives: Bringing the past ‘alive’ to help our society understand our history and challenges, to enable children and visitors to explore Robben Island Museum, virtually, or in person, and to access stories and artefacts through AR and VR;

The Faculty of Community and Health Sciences: Assisting our UWC students to learn and retain information effectively through the Emergency Nursing Trolley interactive solution;

The Cape Town Science Centre: Helping robotics learners as young as 10 years old to assemble robots through custom-made, colourful, interactive 3-D instructions;

TVET colleges: Accelerating our energy transition by teaching our students the installation and maintenance of wind turbines through AR and VR.

We have partnered with an international company, JigSpace, to assist in building AR/VR applications. UWC staff and students may access the JigSpace platform, embedded in iKamva (Contact infouih@uwc.ac.za for assistance).

The UIH would not have grown and developed without our dedicated, talented interns. Most of our interns have graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in eSkills at UWC, and some are now analyst programmers working in the Hub. Besides enthusiastically guiding our visitors through the Immersive Zone, they also create AR/VR solutions. Beyond technical skills, they are exposed to new views of the world, learning ethical work practices and life skills, including effective communication, while building curiosity and confidence. Please visit us at: https://innovationhub.uwc.ac.za/

Your story matters!

Share your postgraduate journey with us, to share with others.

Contact: Tamara Goliath (tgoliath@uwc.ac.za)

Writer, DVC: Research & Innovation office

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