Innovation tech showcase in the Bay
SOCIAL distancing glasses, 3D printed sculptures and a smart conveyor belt system that automatically sorts out objects, were among innovations on display at an expo held in Richards Bay last week.
The KZN Innovation Tech Expo hosted by the Youth ICT Council and attended by Department of Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Stella NdabeniAbrahams, was a platform for developers across the province to showcase their innovations for further development and possible funding.
'This serves as a vehicle to assess the local innovation ecosystem for the revival of the township economy, and to provide necessary intervention, support, information, collaboration and networking.
'The focus of the expo is on the use of innovation and technology to address societal challenges faced by communities in Richards Bay and in townships in general,' said Youth ICT Council president Luvo Grey.
'We are moving into a very disruptive world unpinned by rapid advancement of technology and digital economy growth. ‘However, information and communication technology and skills development programmes are moving extremely slowly.
'Through this expo, we are going to establish a network of young technologists, geared to start companies and create digital economies so as to broaden the range of job opportunities to graduates and the large number of youth sitting at home unemployed,' he said.
Speaking at the event, Minister NdabeniAbrahams
expressed her pride at seeing young innovators actively leading the country into a digital economy.
'Ours is to provide support and leadership, as well as actively participate in creating policies which allow for digital advancement,' she said. She further encouraged collaboration among stakeholders in bridging the divide and ensuring equal access to technology for all communities.