The Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) returns to the African stage, with a deep dive into the transformative power of AI. Hosted by Telkom, SATNAC 2024 will take place from 6 – 9 October in the heart of the Kruger National Park at the Skukuza Rest Camp.
This year’s theme, “The AI-Driven Hyperconnected Future: Co-creating shared value,” promises insightful discussions and groundbreaking research presentations.
South Africa is rapidly emerging as a global leader in AI adoption, defying outdated technological stereotypes. Recent data reveals that over 60% of South African workers regularly use generative AI tools, surpassing rates in many Western nations.
This eagerness to embrace AI is further reflected in the workforce’s strong desire for AI training, with nearly 85% expressing interest.
This proactive approach to AI adoption positions South Africa for significant economic growth. The AI market in South Africa is projected to reach R6.9 billion by 2025, fuelled by increasing investment and adoption across various industries.
What’s more, many businesses are recognising AI’s potential to streamline operations, boost productivity, and drive innovation while appreciating legacy system challenges and the need for increased skill to drive the adoption.
“As AI continues to reshape the continental and global landscape, events like SATNAC are critical in understanding insights, trends and research on AI innovation affecting the South African and global community,” says Dr Mmaki Jantjies, SATNAC Chairperson and Group Executive of the Innovation and Transformation Office at Telkom SA. “By fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the development of homegrown talent, SATNAC empowers people to harness the transformative power of AI and unlock a hyperconnected future filled with opportunity.”
A legacy of innovation
SATNAC stands as a testament to Telkom’s unwavering commitment to innovation and research within the ICT sector. Now in its 26th year, the conference attracts over 300 delegates annually, solidifying its position as the continent’s leading ICT event.
It provides a vital platform for Industry Professionals, Academics, and Operators to share knowledge, discuss advancements in applied research, and explore the latest trends shaping the future of ICT.
This year’s conference will feature a dynamic lineup of plenary sessions and presentations, with speakers and panellists representing local and international leaders in telecommunications, software, network, and infrastructure.
SATNAC runs parallel to Telkom’s prestigious Centres of Excellence (CoE) Programme, a cornerstone of the company’s capacity-building initiatives.
Established in 1997 to address the shortage of highly skilled ICT professionals in South Africa, the CoE Programme has grown to encompass 15 centres, representing the largest coordinated research effort in ICT within the country.
“SATNAC continues to be influential in South Africa and the continent in pushing boundaries and enabling innovative discussions across industry, government, academia and society , and this year will be no different,” says Dr Jantjies. “We look forwards to welcoming thought leaders, industry captains and the brightest young academic minds ICT at this year’s event and delve into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as we navigate this transformative era together.”
The 2024 conference is Telkom-hosted and supported by our Diamond sponsors Amdocs, Huawei, Nokia, Openserve and Telkom Consumer. Platinum sponsors are Accenture and ZTE while Deloitte is the Insights partner. Falcorp and CSG are the Gold sponsors and the Silver Sponsor is SGT Solutions.
