By Julia Moyo
Young people from across Gauteng gathered at the SAMRO Building in Braamfontein yesterday for a Youth Innovation Hackathon aimed at developing digital skills, promoting entrepreneurship and introducing participants to opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI).
The event was hosted by the Gauteng Department of Social Development in partnership with Women in AI and the Ikusasa Lethu Youth Development Project as part of Youth Month activities.
Participants were challenged to develop AI-powered solutions to social and economic problems affecting communities using prompt engineering and other digital tools. The programme included workshops, innovation challenges, networking sessions and presentations designed to strengthen problem-solving and technology skills.
The hackathon also brought together organisations involved in digital skills development, including The Innovation Hub and WeThinkCode, providing participants with information on training opportunities and career pathways within the technology sector.
Speaking at the event, Gauteng Department of Social Development representative Themba Msimanga said young people need to be equipped with skills that will enable them to participate in a rapidly changing economy. “The future of work is increasingly driven by technology and innovation. It is important that young people are equipped with the skills needed to participate meaningfully in the digital economy. Through initiatives such as this hackathon, we are creating opportunities for youth to develop their talents, explore new ideas and contribute to the growth of our province,” said Msimanga.
Dr Natalie R of Women in AI encouraged participants, particularly young women, to pursue opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. She said demand for skills in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies continues to grow globally.
Representing the Ikusasa Lethu Youth Development Project, Lulama Benesh said innovation and entrepreneurship can play an important role in addressing youth unemployment.
“We need to encourage young people to see themselves not only as job seekers but also as job creators. Innovation and entrepreneurship can open doors to new opportunities and help build sustainable livelihoods,” said Benesh.
The event forms part of a broader effort by government and industry partners to equip young people with digital skills and prepare them for careers in the technology sector. In recent years, Gauteng has expanded youth-focused hackathons, coding programmes and digital innovation initiatives aimed at developing practical solutions to community challenges while creating pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.
Organisations such as The Innovation Hub and WeThinkCode continue to play a significant role in developing digital skills and exposing young people to careers in the technology industry. Government stakeholders have increasingly promoted innovation, entrepreneurship and emerging technologies as tools to address youth unemployment and support economic inclusion.
The hackathon also created opportunities for participants to engage with mentors, industry professionals and organisations supporting youth development, highlighting the growing role of technology and innovation in preparing young people for the future of work.
