Towards a Sustainable Digital Future: UKZN-Hosted SAICSIT 2025 Conference Illuminates the Way

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The landmark 46th Annual Conference of the South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists (SAICSIT2025), was held in conjunction with the Foundational Digital Capabilities Research (FDCR2025) gathering.

Hosted by UKZN at the Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre, the themes were ‘Sustainable Digital Intelligent Frontiers’ (SAICSIT) and ‘Towards a Sustainable Digital Economy’ (FDCR), with the two-day event proving to be a melting pot of intellectual engagement, technological innovation and cultural celebration.

Supported by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the conference attracted academics, industry leaders, policymakers and students from across Africa and beyond. The event featured more than 80 paper presentations, four keynote addresses, and a high-level panel discussion occasion.

The guest of honour, Consul-General of India in Durban Dr Thelma John David, delivered an address that underscored the growing collaboration between India and South Africa in the fields of technology, innovation and Higher Education. David’s message highlighted the need for shared progress, ethical leadership and cultural diplomacy in shaping the future digital economy.

In her opening address, Conference Chair and UKZN Academic Leader in Information Systems and Technology Professor Upasana Singh, emphasised the importance of collaboration, digital transformation and inclusive innovation. Singh’s sentiment was echoed throughout the conference as speakers and delegates explored emerging technologies, from Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and cybersecurity to blockchain, digital twins and data analytics.

Address highlights included:

•    Professor Kiran Bhujun (Mauritius) on Leveraging AI for Higher Education Transformation

•    Professor Darelle van Greunen (South Africa) on Inclusive Digital Education and Bridging the Digital Divide

•    Professor Arthur Mutambara (Zimbabwe/South Africa) on AI as a Catalyst for Inclusive Development in the Global South

•    Dr Ntsako Baloyi (Accenture South Africa) on AI as an Enabler for Sustainable Digital Economies

The FDCR sessions, co-ordinated and chaired by Dr Karen Calteaux of the CSIR, showcased cutting-edge research in cloud computing, Internet of Things, cybersecurity and AI, reaffirming South Africa’s leading role in foundational digital capability building.

A standout feature was the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)-sponsored panel session on Digital Resilience in the Age of AI-Driven Threats, moderated by Ms Melissa Naidoo and led by Mr Kenneth Palliam – both from the South African Chapter of ISACA - and fellow cybersecurity experts. It highlighted the urgent need for robust digital governance in an era of AI proliferation.

Other sessions tackled topics including machine learning, cybersecurity in schools, natural language processing and the role of AI in promoting African languages. Young researchers and postgraduate students were especially visible, demonstrating the growing talent pipeline in African digital innovation.

True to its holistic approach, the conference incorporated a chair yoga session, hosted by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) of the Consulate-General of India, reminding delegates of the need for balance between digital intensity and personal wellness.

The festivities culminated in a spectacular gala dinner under the theme Rainbow Safari: Celebrating South African Diversity. Guests dazzled in attire inspired by South African, African and Indian aesthetics. Cultural performances by the SVCC’s Indo-African dance troupe and smooth jazz sounds created an atmosphere of unity and joy. Awards were presented to outstanding researchers, and comedian Aaron McIlroy brought laughter and levity to the evening.

In their closing remarks, Singh and Calteaux thanked participants, presenters, partners, and sponsors for their support, reaffirming the conference’s commitment to building inclusive, ethical, and sustainable digital futures. The spirit of ‘Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu’ - I am because we are - resonated deeply throughout the event.

SAICSIT 2025 was more than a conference; it was a call to action for Africa’s digital scholars and innovators to lead the way in crafting intelligent, inclusive and sustainable technological solutions.

As delegates left the venue, the message was clear: The future is digital - and Africa is ready!

Words: Upasana Singh

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini