By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Dr. Noxolo Kubheka-Dlamini, Telkom’s Chief Digital & Information Officer for Consumer and Small Business, delivered a forward-looking keynote address titled “AI-Driven Hyper-Personalised Future.”
SATNAC annual event, hosted by Telkom, took place from October 6-9 in the heart of Kruger National Park, Skukuza Rest Camp.
It is a collaborative programme between Telkom Group, academia, the telecommunications industry and government to promote research in communication technology and associated sciences and to provide facilities to encourage young scientists and engineers to pursue their interests in South Africa.
Kubheka-Dlamini’s thought-provoking speech centred around the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping hyper-personalised customer experiences, urging industry stakeholders to embrace change or risk becoming irrelevant.
SATNAC 2024, hosted by Telkom, offered a comprehensive exploration of artificial intelligence’s transformative power. From shaping autonomous networks to driving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, AI’s potential to revolutionise industries was a focal point of discussion. The ethical dimensions of AI were not overlooked, with panels delving into the need for transparency, safety, and trust in managing customer data.
The second day featured a particularly insightful panel that redefined the essence of the telecommunications sector, further cementing SATNAC as a catalyst for progress.
For 26 years, SATNAC has served as a cornerstone of knowledge exchange and collaboration, with support from key sponsors, academic institutions, and industry partners.
Dr. Mmaki Jantjies, SATNAC Chairperson and Telkom Group Executive: Innovation & Transformation, delivered an inspiring closing speech, emphasising the event’s enduring legacy of fostering innovation, intellectual capital, and social impact.
In a country grappling with some of the highest levels of inequality in the world, with unemployment hovering at 34%, and a staggering 45% among the youth, Dr. Jantjies stressed the critical role of SATNAC and its collaborative Research Centres of Excellence.
These initiatives, she noted, are not only advancing technological innovation but also playing a crucial role in addressing South Africa’s socioeconomic challenges.
She acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Telkom Group, the SATNAC board, and the many contributors who continue to make the event a success.
As the conference came to a close, Dr. Jantjies took a moment to congratulate the winners of the SATNAC Industry Talent and Best Student Paper awards.