Hackathon Champions. From the left: Thabiso Masuku, Motlatlego sekhitla, Busi Silawule, Kamogelo Manyama, Ntokozo Mahlangu, Melusi Ndlovu, Moyagabo Mashishi, Kwanele Dlamini, Khopotso Morobi.
Hackathons are exiting events that demand innovation, teamwork and creativity to tackle complex problems within a tight timeframe. Behind every victorious hackathon project is a dynamic, well-coordinated team with a great story inspiring their solution. After careful analysis, research and brainstorming, the winning team (E-Health) tackled the service delivery issue (long queues, misdiagnosis, poor response from ambulances, etc) that the municipality encounters within the Health Sector.
In the energy-loaded world of hackathons, where creativity, collaboration and coding prowess collide, there is no greater honour than to claim the coveted top position. It is a testament to ingenuity, teamwork and the relentless pursuit of innovation.
“On the first day, we were nervous as we only had 6 hours to brainstorm and decide on which problem statement to tackle. We had to do our first presentation on Friday at midnight. After deciding on the problem statement, we came up with a virtual queue management system, digital medical file manager, ambulance locator for emergency services and patient-condition severity system, through colour-coding with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
The group faced some challenges; one member was not on par on the user interface design of the software. However, we did not let that get in the way of our teamwork. Fortunately, the advice and guidance we received from a few judges and coaches, particularly Ma' Ntuli, Mr Ayew and Aus' Morongoe played a crucial role in improving our delivery and presentation of the project,” said Thabiso Masuku, E-Health representative.
Second position participants.
Every hackathon victory begins with a spark of inspiration. Our champions, comprising a diverse range of talents, embarked on their journey with a shared commitment to address a pressing problem in a unique way. Innovation was at the heart of their success and the team constantly pushed the boundaries of what was possible. They experimented with emerging technologies, explored unconventional solutions and challenged preconceived notions. Their ability to think outside the box set them on a path to victory.
“When our team's name was called, we were stunned but humbled, that through hard work, dedication and guidance we made it. Moving forward, we will make improvements on our system and during the next 12 months acquire the skills required through incubation to be able to pilot and commercialise our software,” Thabiso said.
During the event the generosity of the industry professionals, the private and public organisations that funded the initiative was also acknowledged CITY OF TSHWANE, AMAZON WEB SERVICES, IQBUSINESS, INTERVENT, NELEKET, FAETHM, AGILE ALLIANCE and NKGWETE IT SOLUTION.
The ICT First Year and Foundation Unit, led by Unit Manager and TUT Council Member, Mashitishi Phurutsi, also received special recognition for the initiative of bridging the digital gap between communities, industry and academia.