by Kgothatso Monono
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) reigns supreme and data stands as the heartbeat of innovation, driving transformative solutions to pressing social challenges. Recognising the immense potential of data science, the 2024 IBM Z Datathon emerged as a dynamic platform aimed at empowering participants to leverage technology for meaningful impact.
Hosted by the Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT), this exciting international event took place at the Soshanguve South campus, through the assistance of Vuyisile Memani, TUT Computer Science Lecturer.
The IBM Z Datathon is more than just a competition; it embodies collaboration and creativity in problem-solving. Participants, organized into diverse teams, utilised data science resources to devise practical solutions in a high-energy environment. The emphasis was on teamwork and the rapid development of innovative ideas, showcasing how data can be harnessed to tackle real-world challenges.
This year’s event drew participation from a wide range of universities across South Africa, including:
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – all three campuses
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
TUT 36, the Data Team from TUT’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology secured a second place for South Africa at the 2024 IMB Z Datathon competition.
University of Fort Hare (UFH)
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
Sefako Makgatho University (SMU)
With more than 9000 registrations across 39 countries and over 320 final projects submitted, South Africa managed to be part of the 13 winning teams selected, with a team from the ICT Faculty’s Computer Science Department taking the second prize for South Africa. The team TUT 36 (Data Team) took on the problem of billions of people lacking access to quality care. They used image processing capabilities and a model to analyse X-ray images of the lungs and identify healthy versus unhealthy lungs. The project has the opportunity to scale for other diseases analysis and prediction.
The diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the participants created a vibrant atmosphere, fostering innovation and collaboration among budding data scientists. The IBM Z Datathon represents a significant step forward in the use of data science across Africa.
By engaging students in hands-on experiences, the event not only helps cultivate essential skills but also inspires the next generation of data scientists to pursue careers in this vital field. The collaborative spirit of the Datathon encourages participants to network, share ideas, and learn from one another, all while working toward a common goal.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and data-driven, events like the IBM Z Datathon are crucial in shaping the future of technology and innovation in Africa. By empowering students to harness the power of data, a way is paved for groundbreaking solutions that address the continent's most pressing social challenges. The success of this year's event once again proves the potential of young minds coming together to create a better tomorrow.
Students are hard at work to turn data into an innovative, winning project.