Young innovators are using technology to explore solutions to some of the challenges facing their communities, including unemployment and access to healthcare.
The Gauteng Department of e-Government hosted the Johannesburg leg of its Youth Tech Expo Hackathon Series at Don Matema Hall in Eldorado Park on 15 and 16 October. The initiative aims to equip young people with digital skills, encourage innovation and create pathways into the digital economy.
The programme gives participants an opportunity to collaborate, develop technology-driven solutions to real-world problems and gain exposure to digital entrepreneurship and emerging technologies.
Ten participants from each of Gauteng’s five regions are expected to be selected to represent their regions at the provincial grand finale in November.
The initiative builds on the growing culture of youth innovation in Eldorado Park. In June, learners participating in a local robotics and coding challenge developed ideas to address everyday challenges. One team designed a medication reminder box intended to help elderly people and others who struggle to manage their medication schedules.
These initiatives highlight how technology can be used not only to develop technical skills, but also to respond to practical needs within communities.
With unemployment remaining a major challenge for young people, programmes that encourage digital skills, problem-solving and entrepreneurship can help open doors to further learning and economic opportunities.
The Youth Tech Expo forms part of efforts to nurture young talent and encourage the next generation of innovators to turn their ideas into practical solutions.
