The DUT Informatics team, comprising Lindokuhle Mnguni, Queen Hadebe, and Sanelisekile Nqabeni, show off their R100 000 prize won in the recent MICT SETA National Skills Challenge Hackathon KZN Regionals.
Image: Supplied
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has once again proven its status as a breeding ground for innovation and entrepreneurship, with its students achieving remarkable success at the MICT SETA National Skills Challenge Hackathon KZN Regionals. Held over two days at the MKRI offices in Durban from March 22-23, the event saw teams from DUT's Faculty of Accounting and Informatics sweep the podium, claiming all top three positions.
DUT said the stellar performance is not just a testament to the skills imparted by its educational programmes, but also reflects the university's commitment to nurturing bold innovators ready to tackle real-world challenges. The first-placed team, DUT Informatics, caught the judges' attention with their inventive approach, earning a substantial prize of R100 000. Meanwhile, second- and third-placed teams, Team Demo and Clever Programming, walked away with R50 000 each.
The winning DUT Informatics team, comprising Lindokuhle Mnguni, Queen Hadebe, and Sanelisekile Nqabeni, will proudly represent the university at the National Competition in Johannesburg, where they hope to demonstrate their skills on a larger stage. "We are overjoyed and honoured to have achieved this victory," said team member Lindokuhle Mnguni. "It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our hard work and creativity."
The second-placed Team Demo, consisting of Siqiniseko Ntombela, Andile Ntshangase, Bukeka Nxumalo, Mesuli Gama, and Mbuso Khoza, developed an innovative tourism safety app that enhances the travel experience by informing users of potentially dangerous areas and suggesting safer routes. “Winning at MICT SETA was an incredible experience for me and my team, and it has motivated us to keep working hard and continuously improve our skills,” said Siqiniseko Ntombela. This app exemplifies how technology can empower tourists, allowing them to explore with greater confidence.
The winning team having fun at the MICT SETA National Skills Challenge Hackathon KZN Regionals.
Image: Vukani Langa
Meanwhile, Clever Programming, made up of Gomotso Mohapi, Ntokozo Ngcobo, and Lwazi Ncongwana, showcased their innovative capabilities with their own impactful project.
Faculty Technician and Engagement representative Ugeshni Moodley and Executive Dean Professor Oludayo Olugbara extended hearty congratulations to all participating teams. Moodley credited the success to the faculty's Engineering Practice Innovation Project (EPIP) model implemented across its specialist laboratories, stating, “This outstanding achievement demonstrates what we can accomplish through innovative practices and collaboration.”
With all eyes now on the forthcoming National Competition in Johannesburg, the anticipation is palpable.
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