The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in collaboration with the Tshwane Institute for Continuing Education (TICE) recently launched a new online Digital Marketing short learning programme that will assist organisations to broaden their digital marketing knowledge using the latest online learning techniques.
Pictured at the Marketing Digital SLP launch are, from left, Miyelani Baloyi, Mrs Potso Mathekga, Dr Elizma Wannenburg and Dr Sfiso Mahlangu.
During the launch at the CSIR International Conference Centre, keynote speaker Dr Sfiso Mahlangu, Researcher and Lecturer of Digital Marketing at TUT, talked about the importance of connecting people and brands in the digital era and shared some recommendations for SMME’s. He discussed the three main topics, brand identity, digital marketing and digital evolution at length.
“Through research we found that consumers in the digital era demand transparency from their brands as they showcase values, culture and behind the scenes processes. This shows that digitalisation involves two-way communication – where brands allow conversations with their audience. This will also allow consumers to receive feedback and be able to address concerns about their brands,” said Dr Mahlangu.
He added that engaging in these interactive approaches with their customers, enables organisations to adapt their products to suit the customers’ needs. “Digital platforms are essential for brand communication since they help organisations to engage with customers and clients in real time on a global scale.
No organisation is digitalised without e-commerce, which allows people to buy goods and services online and makes any organisations’ digital campaigns more successful,” he said.
Unpacking the Digital Marketing course, Miyelani Baloyi, Facilitator, said the Digital Marketing SLP has ten modules that will run over a ten-week period from 09 April to 11 June, at a cost of R7500. He said for attendees to see the value of the course, they should look at the impact the course will have on their digital strategies and their ability to connect with the world.
“The five biggest questions entrepreneurs often ask themselves are: how to grow your business; how to attract clients; what you should do differently to make profit; what you should do to drive your business; and how do you communicate your values. All these could not be feasible if one does not engage in the power of digital marketing,” Miyelani said.
“Over the years customer’s needs, satisfactions and expectations has changed, therefore people will benefit from this course. A lack of digital skills seems to be the number one barrier to digital transformation and business growth,” he added.
Wrapping up the event, Dr Elizma Wannenburg, Head of TUT’s Department of Marketing, Supply Chain and Sports Management, said in today’s hyperconnected world, where every click, like and share shapes the narrative of our digital existence, the bond between people and brands has never been more profound.
“Amidst this digital revolution, we are confronted with a pressing imperative to prepare future-ready marketers, who are not just skilled at navigating the digital landscape but who are equipped with the skills, knowledge and agility to thrive in an ever-evolving digital ecosystem,” she said.
“By integrating digital technologies, innovative pedagogies and real-world applications into our curricula, we can empower students to become digital citizens – equipped with the technical proficiency, critical thinking skills and creativity needed to excel in the digital marketplace of tomorrow. Let us commit to championing digitalisation in higher education, by fostering collaboration with industry and prepare future-ready marketers, who are not just equipped to navigate the digital age, but who are poised to shape its path,” She concluded.