University of Venda Partners with African Technology Forum to Enhance AI Education
The University of Venda has formalized a five-year partnership with the African Technology Forum (ATF) aimed at bolstering artificial intelligence education, digital innovation, and technology-driven workforce development. This significant agreement was announced on Friday, following a signing ceremony held on March 6 at the University Council in Thohoyandou.
This collaboration establishes a comprehensive framework for engagement between both institutions, focusing on equipping students with essential digital skills that are increasingly vital for the future. Additionally, the partnership seeks to amplify research capabilities and foster innovation ecosystems within the realm of higher education.
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding, various initiatives from the African Technology Forum will be introduced in conjunction with universities. These include the ATF AI School and the ATF AI Challenge, alongside other cutting-edge programs designed to give students immersive experiences in emerging technologies.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Bernard Ntambeleni noted that this partnership aligns strategically with the University’s latest framework, Strategy 2026-2030, which emphasizes biodiversity, entrepreneurship, and innovation. He underscored the importance of achieving tangible outcomes from this collaboration, rallying university leadership to ensure effective implementation. “This collaboration will enable students from all departments to engage meaningfully with emerging technologies and contribute to solving real-world challenges,” he stated.
Ntsoaki Mohapi, ATF’s South Africa Country Leader, remarked that the initiative aims to enhance AI competencies, stimulate local innovation, and develop practical solutions that significantly impact African communities. She affirmed ATF’s commitment to ensuring students are actively included in the rapidly evolving global AI landscape.
Academic leaders at the university expressed strong support for the partnership. Natasha Potgieter, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture, conveyed her excitement about establishing an ATF student chapter at the university. This initiative is expected to equip students with valuable AI skills, mentorship from international experts, and opportunities for practical applications in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and education. She also announced plans for a joint steering committee to enhance collaboration and extend the program’s reach.
Tawanda Runhare, Acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education, emphasized the unique potential of integrating science, technology, and indigenous knowledge systems through partnerships. He sees this as a crucial opportunity to ensure that innovation is not only globally relevant but also rooted in the African context and responsive to societal needs.
Closing the ceremony, Vice-Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies Fulfero Netswela highlighted that the true success of this partnership will be measured by its transformation into concrete programs that promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology-driven opportunities for students, researchers, and the broader university community.
