As SATNAC 2024 draws to a close at the Skukuza Rest Camp in the heart of the Kruger National Park, we are reminded of the profound impact this conference continues to make on South Africa’s innovation landscape.
Dr. Mmaki Jantjies, SATNAC Chairperson and Telkom Group Executive: Innovation & Transformation, delivered an inspiring closing speech, emphasising the event’s enduring legacy of fostering innovation, intellectual capital, and social impact.
In a country grappling with some of the highest levels of inequality in the world, with unemployment hovering at 34%, and a staggering 45% among the youth, Dr. Jantjies stressed the critical role of SATNAC and its collaborative Research Centres of Excellence.
These initiatives, she noted, are not only advancing technological innovation but also playing a crucial role in addressing South Africa’s socioeconomic challenges.
“Over 3,600 postgraduate students in the STEM fields have emerged from this collaboration,” Dr. Jantjies announced with pride.
These graduates, many now holding leadership roles in the telecommunications sector, are tangible proof of the conference’s impact over the years.
The Transformative Potential of AI
SATNAC 2024, hosted by Telkom, offered a comprehensive exploration of artificial intelligence’s transformative power. From shaping autonomous networks to driving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, AI’s potential to revolutionise industries was a focal point of discussion. The ethical dimensions of AI were not overlooked, with panels delving into the need for transparency, safety, and trust in managing customer data.
Dr. Jantjies reflected on the vast knowledge shared over the course of the conference, saying, “We have explored AI’s role in forging a hyper-personalized future while revolutionizing customer experience as we know it.”
The second day featured a particularly insightful panel that redefined the essence of the telecommunications sector, further cementing SATNAC as a catalyst for progress.
For 26 years, SATNAC has served as a cornerstone of knowledge exchange and collaboration, with support from key sponsors, academic institutions, and industry partners. ”
The dedication and passion of our partners have enriched our understanding of AI’s potential and its key role in driving skills development,” Dr. Jantjies emphasised.
She acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Telkom Group, the SATNAC board, and the many contributors who continue to make the event a success.
As the conference came to a close, Dr. Jantjies took a moment to congratulate the winners of the SATNAC Industry Talent and Best Student Paper awards.
“Your work exemplifies the spirit of innovation and serves as an inspiration for us all,” she said, encouraging the winners to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.
A Shared Vision for the Future
While SATNAC 2024 may be over, its legacy will continue to evolve.
“As we depart from this conference, let us carry the torch of knowledge and continue investing in South Africa’s innovation sector, in the human capital that drives this sector,” Dr. Jantjies urged.
Her closing words serve as a rallying cry for all participants to push the limits within their organisations and sectors, leveraging the knowledge and collaboration fostered at SATNAC to drive forward progress.
With heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of SATNAC 2024, Dr. Jantjies concluded, “Our contribution, our collaboration, and our shared vision will continue beyond the walls of this conference. We look forward to an amazing year ahead, building on the partnerships and innovations that began here.”
“As we move into a future defined by technological transformation, SATNAC remains a vital force in shaping South Africa’s knowledge economy and ensuring that innovation continues to address the country’s most pressing challenges.”
How Are AI, Data And Automation Redefining The Future Of Telcos?
By Gugu Lourie
The telecommunications industry is undergoing a radical shift, pushed by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and automation. The recent SATNAC 2024 panel discussion, “Redefining Telecommunications: Telcos of the Future,” hosted by Sello Mmakau, Group Chief Digital Officer of Telkom SA, brought together global experts to explore how these innovations are reshaping the telco landscape.
The panellists, including Prof. Thomas Magedanz from Technische Universität Berlin, Dr. Adrian Tiplady of the National Research Foundation (NRF), Naeem Seedat from Telkom SA, and Manav Daby, Specialist in Data & AI at Google, shared their insights on the role of AI and the broader implications for the future of telecommunications.
Telco to Techno
The panel kicked off with Mmakau addressing Prof. Thomas Magedanz about the shift from traditional telcos to a new operating model termed “Techno”, which is relatively new buzzword that has emerged to describe the transformation of traditional telecommunications companies (telcos) into more technology-focused and innovative businesses.
Magedanz emphasised the role of AI in this transition, framing it as a key enabler in network automation.
“We’ve seen that automation in networks has been a long-standing trend,” Magedanz noted. “AI, particularly in the context of 6G research, is poised to facilitate self-optimizing networks that can enhance energy efficiency and performance.”
What Is The Impact Of Telkom Centres Of Excellence In Empowering Students?
By Gugu Lourie
For over 27 years, Telkom’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) programme has been a beacon of progress in South Africa’s ICT industry, playing a critical role in developing the nation’s talent pool and addressing crucial technological gaps.
Established in 1997, the CoE initiative is designed to empower students by fostering research, innovation, and skills development, particularly in the fields of Computer Science and Engineering (CS&E).
By enabling access to advanced education and research opportunities, Telkom’s CoE programme has significantly contributed to the creation of a future-fit, skilled workforce that is driving South Africa’s digital transformation.
A visionary programme rooted in collaboration
The inception of the CoE programme came at a time when South Africa was navigating significant technological and socio-economic challenges.
Recognising the need for a robust ICT infrastructure, Telkom spearheaded this initiative as a strategic investment to bridge the skills gap and promote research and development (R&D).
