TUT students explore AI tools during Microsoft Copilot workshop

ICT students explored artificial intelligence tools during a Microsoft Copilot workshop that showed how AI can support research, writing, coding and productivity in academic work.

Ryan Gallus, from Microsoft. Ryan Gallus, an Educational Consultant from Scadco, who led the workshop, introduced the first-year ICT students to artificial intelligence during the session hosted at the Tshwane University of Technology.

The workshop formed part of efforts to equip students with practical knowledge of technologies shaping the digital workplace. Students learned how artificial intelligence can support research, writing, coding and productivity within Microsoft applications.

Bontle Moloi organised the session in collaboration with the Scadco team and with support from the Faculty of ICT.

Students also explored Microsoft Copilot and the Microsoft Learn platform, which offer self-paced training, certification preparation and skills aligned with industry standards.

The session also promoted the Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors programme, which encourages student leadership in technology and provides opportunities for networking, personal development and participation in international Microsoft initiatives.

Paige Osmond, from Microsoft. Gallus introduced key concepts such as prompt engineering, responsible AI use and effective prompt structuring. Students learned how artificial intelligence can support academic writing, research and practical tasks in Microsoft applications.

Adding to the fun and hands-on experience, Paige Osmond led a Promptathon challenge where students worked in teams to design prompts that could generate solutions to real-world problems. The activity encouraged teamwork, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving.

According to Ofentse Monamodi, a first-year student enrolled for the Informatics Extended programme, the workshop created a meaningful learning experience and helped students build confidence while developing practical skills for academic work and future careers.

The workshop also highlighted the growing student interest in artificial intelligence, digital tools and professional certification opportunities within the ICT field.

Bontle Moloi, Microsoft Ambassador. Students who attended the Microsoft workshop.

Students who attended the Microsoft workshop.

Students who attended the Microsoft workshop.