University of Johannesburg Awarded Major EU Grant to Drive Digital Education in South Africa

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has recently been awarded a substantial grant from the European Union, totaling over R8.1 million ($417,435.49), aimed at driving digital transformation within South African Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

Funded through the Erasmus+ program, a flagship EU initiative targeting education, training, youth, and sport, this grant marks a significant investment in enhancing educational capabilities within South Africa.

The project, known as "Project Pro-TELDE (Promotion of Technology-Enhanced Learning and Digital Education)," is poised to tackle contemporary challenges and opportunities arising from the integration of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT in educational settings.

Professor Tankiso Moloi, Research Chair in 4IR at the Johannesburg Business School, UJ, emphasized that Project Pro-TELDE aims to empower lecturers in South African TVET colleges, particularly in business and economics, by facilitating the creation of digital teaching materials.

Leveraging open digital resources and technology-enhanced learning methods, the initiative seeks to equip educators with the tools necessary to adapt to the evolving educational landscape.

Moloi further stressed, "Project Pro-TELDE recognises the need for TVET institutions to equip their students with digital skills and competencies essential for success in the modern workplace."

The University of Johannesburg's commitment to AI research and education is well-established, with the institution ranking sixth among African universities for its research performance in AI.

In December 2022, the university announced its decision to mandate artificial intelligence courses across all qualifications offered, further underscoring its dedication to preparing students for the demands of an increasingly digitized world.

Source: Abdullah Ajibade / TechPoint Africa