The University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), non-profit Empire Partner Foundation (EPF), and Sandton-based radio station 919FM have launched an initiative to encourage innovative, technology-driven solutions to South Africa’s challenges by bringing together industry, academia, and the government.
The trio describes the “Unity in Action: Crafting Solutions for a Stronger South Africa” initiative as a collaborative approach to developing a problem-solving process in order to improve and strengthen the country.
This comes as South Africa faces major challenges in water, electricity, healthcare, education, agriculture, housing, unemployment, safety and security, transportation, and rural development.
This event series, launched by the three entities, intends to encourage innovative, technology-driven solutions to South Africa’s challenges by bringing together industry, academia, and government.
According to the parties, the primary objective will be to create a structured process for problem solutions, beginning with food safety, but also developing flexible frameworks to address ongoing public sector challenges through stakeholder involvement.
Key objectives included developing and refining a problem-solving methodology that addresses real-world challenges in South Africa, establishing a multi-stakeholder community committed to developing and implementing long-term solutions, and cultivating a collaborative culture through ongoing sessions that encourage active participation from industry leaders and stakeholders.
“The ultimate aim is to establish a long-term, adaptable methodology for addressing challenges in South Africa, beginning with food safety and expanding to other issues that affect the well-being of our nation. I encourage public health experts, tech innovators, government representatives, and business leaders to join us in creating a blueprint for change,” said Ravi S Pillay, multi-stakeholder partnership facilitator and GIBS faculty member.
For EPF, a tech non-profit organisation, the series is transformative in addressing some of South Africa’s most pressing challenges.
In a statement CEO of EPF, Joanna Govender said: “With a proven track record in implementing social impact solutions, we understand that lasting change requires a collaborative approach, uniting the expertise of industry, academia, and government.
“Through this series, we are not only addressing immediate concerns but also building a foundation for sustainable, inclusive growth. Our mission is to create pathways for individuals, communities, and enterprises to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.”
“This partnership allows us to do just that—by combining our strengths, we can tackle complex issues with innovation and resilience, moving closer to a better, more equitable future for all South Africans,” she added.
While, Kanthan Pillay, speaking on behalf 919FM said the with problems the country faces “every other South African wants to have roofs over their heads, to be safe and secure in homes, and to sleep peacefully at night, to be able to feed and clothe themselves and their families, to have safe and abundant drinking water and have clean air and an unpolluted environment.”
To this end, he said the initiative seeks to have a social welfare framework that protects the most vulnerable in society without making them dependent on the state.
To participate in the series join here
https://www.gibs.co.za/programmes/a-collaborative-approach-to-building-a-problem-solving-methodology-in-the-pursuit-to-fix-and-improve
The Empire Partner Foundation (EPF), under the leadership of its founder, Nathan Mariemuthu, stands as a beacon of hope for young South Africans, empowering them to unlock their potential and pursue greatness.
Speaking at EPF Tech Awards held in Montecassino this weekend, Mariemuthu emphasised the vital role EPF plays as a partner foundation in nurturing young innovators and giving them the confidence to become leaders in their fields.
“I have a birthday every day,” Mariemuthu remarked in his speech. “I don’t look forward to one specific day because every single day of my life, I get to meet incredible young people who inspire me. That’s the gift I receive daily.”
This simple yet profound sentiment encapsulates EPF’s mission: to constantly seek out and support young talent across South Africa, empowering them to take charge of their futures.
Founded in 2016, the EPF has long held a singular vision: to be a true partner to the youth of South Africa by creating opportunities for growth and innovation in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
