Advisory Boards to strengthen ICT Programmes

Advisory Boards to strengthen ICT Programmes
 
University of Mpumalanga (UMP) School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences recently launched Advisory Boards for the Bachelor of ICT (BICT) and Diploma in ICT in Application Development (DIPICT) programmes.

This strategic move is aimed at strengthening collaboration with industry and expert stakeholders to ensure that the institution's academic offerings remain current, relevant, and responsive to rapid developments in the ICT sector.

The boards comprise a diverse group of professionals, including representatives from industry, academia, public sector institutions, the School’s alumni, and international partners.

UMP Head of School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, Professor Ntombovuyo.Wayi-Mgwebi said the broad stakeholder base brings valuable insight into emerging trends and skills requirements, supporting UMP’s goal of aligning ICT education with the evolving needs of the digital economy.
The advisory boards will be chaired by Mr Ayanda Ngcebetsha (BICT) and Professor Stella Bvuma (DIPICT). Mr Ngcebetsha is the GSI Partner Development Director at Microsoft Global Partner Solutions, and Professor Bvuma serves as Director at the University of Johannesburg in Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems. Both expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the strategic growth and relevance of the School’s programmes.

At the recent discussions held at UMP, the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences provided an overview of its academic offerings, with focused attention on the BICT and DIPICT programmes, including curriculum design, student achievements, and ongoing initiatives aimed at integrating innovation and practical application into teaching and learning.

“It also featured student participation in national coding competitions, innovation challenges, and the School’s hackathon initiative – all key examples of industry-aligned experiential learning.

Key themes included strengthening student support mechanisms, fostering partnerships to drive industry- and society-based innovation, and developing short learning programmes to address emerging skills gaps,” said Professor Wayi-Mgwebi.

The relevance of hackathons and similar initiatives as platforms for practical problem-solving and exposure to real-world technologies was highlighted. Board members also emphasised the importance of industry-recognised certifications in enhancing graduate employability and competitiveness.
Professor Wayi-Mgwebi further added that the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences is confident that the advisory boards will play a pivotal role in shaping a responsive and future-focused ICT education environment.

“Through continued collaboration with experts and stakeholders, UMP aims to position its programmes – and its graduates – at the forefront of the fast-changing information and communication technology landscape,” she said.

Meet the BICT Advisory Board Members

• Mr Ayanda Ngcebetsha (Chair), Microsoft
• Vishal Maharaj, Nedbank
• Prof Hossana Twinomurinzi, the University of Johannesburg (UJ)
• Dr Makaziwe Makamba, National School of Government
• Prof Athula Ginige, Western Sydney University, Australia
• Ms Mnyango, Master’s Student at the University of Mpumalanga

DIPICT Advisory Board Members

• Prof Stella Bvuma (Chair), University of Johannesburg (UJ)
• Dr Jabu Mtsweni, CSIR
• Mr Derick Mboweni, SITA SOC (Ltd)
• Ms Shubna Harilal, Gijima
• Ms Aluwani Netshivhulana, Standard Bank

University of Mpumalanga Members

• Prof Ndiko Ludidi (Dean of Agriculture and Natural Sciences at the University of Mpumalanga)
• Prof Ntombovuyo Wayi-Mgwebi (Head of School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)
• Dr Samuel Ogunleye (BICT Programme Leader)
• Dr Noel Zhakata (DIPICT Programme Leader)

 
Back, from left: Mr Derick Mboweni (SITA), Dr Norwell Zhakata (UMP), Dr Jabu Mtsweni (CSIR), Dr Olalekan Ogunleye (UMP) and Mr. Ayanda Ngcebetsha (Microsoft Global Partner Solutions)
Front, from left: Ms Aluwani Netshivhulana (Standard Bank), Prof. Ntombovuyo Wayi-Mgwebi (UMP), Prof Ndikho Ludidi (UMP), Prof Stella Bvuma (UJ) and Ms Nokukhanya Mnyango (UMP Student)