TUT City partnership drives student innovation at 8th Tshwane Varsity Hackathon launch

The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and City of Tshwane launched the 8th annual Tshwane Varsity Hackathon (TVH) at the Soshanguve South Campus on 29 April 2026, marking the start of the University's annual Hackathon Series and bringing together academia, the City of Tshwane and industry to advance student innovation and collaboration.

Nkulumo Nkuna, ICEP Central Manager, welcomed guests and participants and positioned the event as a platform for innovation, collaboration and opportunity. He encouraged students to compete with purpose, learn actively, and push limits throughout the hackathon.

Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research Innovation and Engagement, delivered a keynote address and highlighted the strength of collaboration between TUT and the City of Tshwane. She said TVH connects city priorities with student capabilities and advances meaningful change through partnership.

Dr Papu-Zamxaka explained that the initiative aligns with TUT Institutional Strategic Plan 2026–2035 and supports the development of future-ready graduates equipped to address unemployment, inequality, service delivery issues and digital transformation.

Thembi Tshangela, Deputy Director, ICT Security and Risk Management, and Amelia Phefo, Deputy Director, Smart Cities and Emerging Technologies, represented the City of Tshwane and reaffirmed their commitment to innovation and collaboration. They emphasised the role of technology-driven solutions in building a smart, responsive city.

Dr Etienne van Wyk, Executive Dean of FoICT, recognised support from partners, sponsors and organisers. Recognising all participants and stakeholders, he said the hackathon continues to grow in impact and provides students with an opportunity to engage real-world challenges while developing teamwork, innovation and problem-solving skills.

Mbali Blaai, stakeholder representative; Phillistus Masebe, sponsor from Motse Innovation Centre; and Prof Caroline Khoathane, Assistant Dean from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, also delivered messages of support and highlighted the importance of sustained partnerships in nurturing student talent and advancing innovation in communities.

Dr Carla Coetzee from the ICT 1st Year and Foundation Unit concluded the programme with a vote of thanks and acknowledged the contributions of the speakers, organisers, partners, and attendees.

The 2026 edition of the Hackathon brought top student innovators together to transform ideas into prototypes and prototypes into start-ups that contribute to South Africa’s economy.