UCT Department of Information Systems

🌟 Exciting Opportunity Alert! 🌟

The Centre for Information Technology and National Development in Africa (CITANDA), housed within the Department of Information Systems in the Faculty of Commerce at the University of Cape Town, is seeking to appoint a Research Officer for a 24-month contract position starting as soon as possible. This is an 80% part-time post. For more information, please see the below ad and visit the website: https://lnkd.in/dtNYVmda.

🚨 Urgent Reminder: IFIP Submission Deadline in 2 Days! 🚨

We are only two days away from the submission deadline for the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP) conference. If you haven't submitted your papers or proposals yet, now is the time to do so!

Submit your paper here: https://lnkd.in/dd9d4n3C

Learn more about the conference: https://lnkd.in/dBPuRFYD

IFIP WG 9.4 2024 Extended Submission Date: 22 November 2023 (23:59:59 AoE)

🌟 Exciting Scholarship Opportunity for aspiring IS Honours Students! 🌟

We're thrilled to announce that the UCT Department of Information Systems is offering a unique opportunity for dedicated students. We have five one-year bursaries available for those looking to pursue a BCom Honours degree (includes 4th year B.Bus.Sci students majoring in IS at University of Cape Town).

📆 Important Date:
Closing Date for Applications: 10th January 2024

📝 Detailed information is attached with all the specifics you need to know about the bursary, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

💡 Don't miss this chance to further your education and career in the field of IS. If you're passionate about this field and meet the eligibility criteria, we strongly encourage you to apply.

📢 Please Share: Help us spread the word by sharing this post with your network, friends, or anyone who might benefit from this opportunity.

📢 Good News! 🚀

The 18th International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP) WG 9.4 Conference on the Implications of Information and Communication Technologies for Development has extended its paper submission deadline!

New Deadline: Nov 22, 2023 (23:59:59 AoE)

Submit your paper here: https://protect-za.mimecast.com/s/h14LClOkn7I2DXk1PSGjWc2

Learn more about the conference: https://sites.google.com/view/ifip94capetown2024/

Don't miss this chance to join the conversation in Cape Town, May 2024!

🌍💻🇿🇦

IFIP WG 9.4 2024 Extended Submission Date: 22 November 2023 (23:59:59 AoE)

Have you already prepared a paper? We have two more days remaining before the paper submission deadline!

Reminder:

• Authors should guarantee the anonymity of their submissions by removing names and affiliations from the first page and elsewhere in the paper, which would allow reviewers to easily identify authors.

• All papers must follow Springer's template.

• Papers will be submitted via EasyChair (click here). See:

https://easychair.org/my/conference?conf=ifipwg94capetown

Submissions are still open for the Call for Papers for the 18th IFIP Working Group 9.4 Conference, to take place in Cape Town, 20-22 May 2024. The Conference theme is “Reshaping an Unequal World Through Social Justice and Digital Technologies”. A kind reminder that the deadline for submitting papers is 15 November 2023.

For all information, please refer to the Conference Website: https://sites.google.com/view/ifip94capetown2024/home.

Submissions are still open for the Call for Papers for the 18th IFIP Working Group 9.4 Conference, to take place in Cape Town, 20-22 May 2024. The Conference theme is “Reshaping an Unequal World Through Social Justice and Digital Technologies”. A kind reminder that the deadline for submitting papers is 15 November 2023.

For all information, please refer to the Conference Website: https://sites.google.com/view/ifip94capetown2024/home.

We want to congratulate our Prof. Ojelanki Ngwenyama on the recent publication of his paper in Information Systems Research (ISR) (5-year Impact Factor: 7.2) entitled "The Open Prison of the Big Data Revolution: False Consciousness, Faustian Bargains, and Digital Entrapment"

Available via Open Access at the link below:
https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/epdf/10.1287/isre.2020.0588

Abstract:
Although some scholars raise alarm about societal harm emerging from Big Data practices, critical social theory (CST) Information Systems research on the structures and dynamics driving Big Data practices is rare. In this research commentary, we interrogate how tech firms use social practices and platform design to strategically manipulate individuals into accepting datafication and data assetization that accrue positive data network effects for themselves and mostly negative data network effects (economic loss, social and privacy harm) for individuals. We draw on the ideas of Heidegger and Marcuse to critically question the Big Data paradigm in order to develop better understanding of the social implications for individuals and society. Using the concepts of false consciousness, digital entrapment, and Faust-ian bargains, we critically inquire into the Big Data practices that keep us tethered to digital platforms. Specifically, we interrogate sociomaterial structures that socially condition indivi-duals into a digital habitus and to identify themselves as homo digitalis, who view all their “relations” (social and economic) as digital. This social conditioning reproduces a false conscious-ness that constricts our worldview, undermines our rational choices, and enables the risky compromises we make with tech companies that manipulate and exploit us with their increas-ingly oppressive Big Data practices and related dark patterns. We critically analyze the case of Microsoft Viva to provide an illustration of how mundane digital tools can condition our real-ity and entrap us into an open prison. We argue that if we do not critically interrogate our false consciousness of the digital and understand how digital giants colonize our social systems by structurally embedding Big Data practices, we will continue to be susceptible to manipulation and digital entrapment. Ongoing risky compromises with tech firms will erode the very foun-dations of the “good life,” freedom, liberty, and personal privacy, and they will institutional-ize the open prison. The CST explanation we propose and the research agenda we outline are meant to encourage research into solutions to the digital entrapment problem.

-----We have some GOOD NEWS! The postgraduate application submission deadlines have been extended until the end of November 2023 (excluding the Honours programs)----------

Would you like to know what studying at the University of Cape Town in the Department of Information Systems is like? Dive into the experiences of our current postgraduate students. Discover their journeys, insights, and the program's transformative impact on their careers and personal growth. Please find the attached, read their stories and get inspired!

Melissa Abrahams, 2023 Postgraduate Diploma, Part-time student.
Yolanda Nkala, 2023 Postgraduate Diploma, Part-time student.
Sinthuri Konar, 2023 Final IS Postgraduate Honours, Part-time student.
Anthea Williams, 2023 Final IS Postgraduate Honours, Part-time student.
Ammar Canani, 2023 Final IS Postgraduate Masters, Part-time student.
Billy Mashele, 2023 PhD student.
Safianu Omar, 2023 PhD student.
Akhona Krakri, 2023 PhD Student.

🔔 Apply for POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN ! 🔔 LAST CHANCE to Apply for POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN !

🌟 WHY CHOOSE US?

✅ Meticulously Designed Curricula 📘

✅ Blend of Theory & Practical Knowledge 🧠🔧

✅ A Thriving, Intellectual Academic Community 🤝

✅ Innovate, Lead & Transform in the Industry 💡🚀

Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers! Secure your spot NOW and become a part of our transformative academic experience, shaping IS practitioners and leaders of tomorrow.

📝 APPLY TODAY and step into a world of endless possibilities with the University of Cape Town!

✍ Apply: https://lnkd.in/dpv8x_95 OR

🔍 Visit https://sit.uct.ac.za/

*One day to go*
We are only one day away from the upcoming School of IT Showcase.
To attend, RSVP by registering here https://lnkd.in/dc_YBh_c

The School of Information Technology at the University of Cape Town, comprising the Departments of Computer Science and Information Systems, cordially invites you to the 2023 Showcase which will once again take place in person. This year the event will take place on Friday, 27 October 2023, between 17h30 for 18h00 and 20h00 in the Sarah Baartman Hall on the Upper Campus at the University of Cape Town.
The event will display the research and software development projects of our third-year BCom and BSc finalists, Honours, Masters, and PhD students, with demonstrations covering a diverse range of topics, including Artificial Intelligence, Computer Games, Computer Graphics, Digital Libraries, Human-Computer Interaction, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, and their impacts on society, and many more. In addition to the opportunity to engage with our students about their work, the event will include the presentation of our industry-sponsored awards.
To attend RSVP by registering here https://lnkd.in/dc_YBh_c

🎉 Huge congrats to Manelisi Ncube an Information Systems and Computer Science student from University of Cape Town! 🚀

Winner of the 2023 Syft Analytics Hackathon, competing against 500+ students and even tying for the top spot after designing a full-stack web app in just 7 days. Juggling between a tight internship schedule and coursework, Manelisi proved that determination and passion lead to success. 🖥️💡

Manelisi: "I decided to give it my best shot, putting in a lot of hours for the hackathon... I’m extremely happy to have represented UCT’s excellence."

🏆🎓

Read more: https://sit.uct.ac.za/articles/2023-10-16-accolades-school-it-student

** Reminder **

🎉 Exciting news! The updated Call for Papers (CfP) for the 18th International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP) Working Group 9.4 Conference is now available.

This conference is scheduled to take place in the beautiful city of Cape Town, South Africa from 20-22 May 2024, with the theme of "Reshaping an Unequal World Through Social Justice and Digital Technologies." 🌍💻

We warmly invite you to submit your papers and share your insights on this pertinent theme. Additionally, the Call for Panels and Workshops is also open, providing a platform for engaging discussions and collaborative learning. 🗣️🤝

📅 The deadline for all paper format submissions is fast approaching on 15 November 2023. Don't miss this chance to contribute to a discourse aimed at fostering social justice in our digital age.

For more information on the conference, submission guidelines, and to stay updated on important dates, visit our website and EasyChair page:

Website: https://lnkd.in/dqb9R24J

EasyChair Submission: https://lnkd.in/dkduhdpR

The IS Department seeks to make a full-time permanent appointment for a Senior Lecturer or Lecturer position. More details are attached.

To view and apply for this position, please visit the UCT Internal Careers site (For Internal Applicants):
https://performancemanager.successfactors.eu/sf/jobreq?jobId=469&company=universi07

UCT Careers site (For external Applicants) to create a profile and to submit your application:
https://jobs.uct.ac.za/job/Cape-Town-Senior-Lecturer/982517601/

🔔 FINAL CALL FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN ! 🔔

Thinking about further study but not sure whether it is for you? The occupational marketplace is more competitive than ever before, and it is important to have a career strategy in place to help you gain the edge.

A formal postgraduate qualification is a powerful differentiator!

🚀 Elevate Your Career in Information Systems (IS) with the School of Information Technology at the University of Cape Town in the UCT Department of Information Systems!
🚀 Time is ticking and the deadline to join our 2024 Postgraduate Programmes in Information Systems (IS) is rapidly approaching!

🕰️ Apply by 31st October 2023, and embark on a journey where YOUR potential is turned into success. 💻➡️🌎

🌟 WHY CHOOSE US?
✅ Meticulously Designed Curricula 📘
✅ Blend of Theory & Practical Knowledge 🧠🔧
✅ A Thriving, Intellectual Academic Community 🤝
✅ Innovate, Lead & Transform in the Industry 💡🚀

Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers! Secure your spot NOW and become a part of our transformative academic experience, shaping IS practitioners and leaders of tomorrow.

📝 APPLY TODAY and step into a world of endless possibilities with the University of Cape Town!

✍ Apply: https://uct.ac.za/students/applications-apply/forms OR
🔍 Visit https://sit.uct.ac.za/

🗣️ Spread the word, tag a friend who needs to see this, and build our future together! 🌐

uct.ac.za

The School of Information Technology at the University of Cape Town, comprising the Departments of Computer Science and Information Systems, cordially invites you to the 2023 Showcase which will once again take place in person. This year the event will take place on Friday, 27 October 2023, between 17h30 for 18h00 and 20h00 in the Sarah Baartman Hall on the Upper Campus at the University of Cape Town.
The event will display the research and software development projects of our third-year BCom and BSc finalists, Honours, Masters, and PhD students, with demonstrations covering a diverse range of topics, including Artificial Intelligence, Computer Games, Computer Graphics, Digital Libraries, Human-Computer Interaction, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, and their impacts on society, and many more. In addition to the opportunity to engage with our students about their work, the event will include the presentation of our industry-sponsored awards.
To attend RSVP by registering here https://lnkd.in/dc_YBh_c

Congratulations to Professor Ulrike Rivett for being awarded a UCT Excellence Award for overall performance in Research, Teaching and Administration! We are proud of you!

Picture: UCT School of IT website.

It is with great pleasure and pride to announce that Dr. Thabela-Chimboza Tendi Africaness has been promoted (ad hominem) to the rank of Senior Lecturer effective 1 January 2024. Please join us in congratulating Tendani!

Photo: Provided.

It is with great pleasure and pride to announce that Dr. Sumarie Roodt has been promoted (ad hominem) to the rank of Associate Professor effective 1 January 2024. Please join us in congratulating Sumarie!

Photo: UCT School of IT website

🏉 Rugby World Cup Fever! 🌍

Did you know? While we passionately follow the , hundreds of thousands might engage with a website crafted by our very own alumni! 🎓💼

Introducing www.superbru.com 🖥️, a brainchild of some of our 1998 Full-time IS Honours students like Andrew Wood, Richard Atkins and their team, developed during time spent in London. It began as a hobby and has now transformed into a growing platform for sports enthusiasts.

Today, Andrew and Richard are leading the helm at SportEngage.com and Nevado.com.

What a testament to the calibre of our alums!

Learn more about their journey here 👉 https://www.superbru.com/about

🏆🖥️🏉 University of Cape Town

Superbru - About and History About Superbru: game, community, business platform and sports data source. Read our history and see how many predictions have been made.

We are delighted and excited to announce that the Call for Papers for the 18th IFIP Working Group 9.4 Conference is to take place in Cape Town (South Africa) from 20-22 May 2024. The Conference theme is “Reshaping an Unequal World Through Social Justice and Digital Technologies”.

The attached Call for Papers contains all information on the Conference theme and important dates. A list of tracks for paper submissions to the Conference is also attached. The submission deadline for all paper formats is 15 November 2023.

Call for Papers: https://lnkd.in/d-8Mi27Y

University of Cape Town

Congratulations to Joseph Omidosu on attaining a PhD in IS. Joseph’s thesis was entitled: “A social-technical harm-based taxonomy of online hate in South Africa.”
He was supervised by Prof. Mike Kyobe.
Congratulations Dr. Joseph Omidosu! .

We are incredibly proud to announce that our IS University of Cape Town team, the CyberTrons, secured an impressive second place in the Cyber 9/12 Strategy Challenge organised by the Atlantic Council and C3SA_UCT.
Held on 18-19th August, the challenge saw the participation of excellent teams from across Africa, showcasing the best of strategic thinking and cyber talent from our continent.
While we're basking in the glow of our team's accomplishments, we’d also like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all participating teams, especially the first-place winners. Your dedication and talent are truly commendable!

Here's to pushing the boundaries in Information Systems and Cyber Strategy!


(Pictured here: 2nd place winners)

The big day has finally arrived! Another hearty congratulation from the UCT Department of Information Systems family to Dr Tendani Mulanga Chimboza-Thabela, on her graduation today.

Congratulations to Grant Oosterwyk on his appointment as President-Elect for the Aissac - The Southern African Chapter of the AIS. Keep making us proud!

📚🎓 The Department of Information Systems is now OPEN for applications for our 2024 postgraduate programmes in Information Systems (IS). Whether you are a full-time scholar or a working professional looking for part-time studies, we've got you covered.

Our curricula are meticulously designed to challenge your intellect, inspire creativity, and provide the practical knowledge you need for a successful career in the tech industry.

💻🚀 Accelerate your tech journey with us! We are accepting applications until September 2023. The deadline for applications is 31st October 2023 for a chance to start your new journey in 2024. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of our intellectually stimulating academic community.

Apply today 📝➡️ (More information on the various programmes is attached along with our UCT Department of Information Systems Recognition of Prior Learning policy)

The crowds have arrived. Come say hi; we'd love to meet you. Secure your spot today and take the first step towards an exciting tech career. 🚀🎓

Want to know more about our programs? Curious for us to reach out to you? Just scan the QR code below and we'll connect with you. Looking forward to your interest! University of Cape Town

🎓📚🎉 Today, join us for our University Open Day! 🎉📚🎓

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of our digital world? Want to shape the future of technology? If yes, then we welcome you to explore our Information Systems Department during our Open Day!

Get a firsthand glimpse into our state-of-the-art labs, chat with our Commerce faculty, and learn about our innovative curriculum designed to equip you with the skills needed to thrive in the digital era. 🖥️💡

Discover the diverse career paths a degree in IS can offer, and hear about the exciting research opportunities we provide.

Come along 📅 today, May 13th, and find out how you can be part of the next generation of tech leaders. See you there! University of Cape Town

Congratulations to Mziwoxolo Mayedwa on attaining his PhD in IS. Mziwoxolo’s thesis was entitled: “Towards the Implementation of a Fully-fledged Electronic Service for Citizens: The Case for Local Government in South Africa.”
He was supervised by Prof. Jean-Paul Van Belle
Congratulations Dr. Mziwoxolo Mayedwa! .

(Photo: Supplied)

Congratulations to Tendani Mulanga Chimboza-Thabela on attaining her PhD in IS. Tendani’s thesis was entitled: “ICT Organizations' Minimal Compliance with Affirmative Action Regulations: Case of the B-BBEE ICT Sector Code in South Africa”.
She was supervised by Prof Wallace Chigona.
Congratulations Dr. Tendani Mulanga Chimboza-Thabela! .

(Photo: Supplied)

We are excited to welcome our PhD students and staff to the annual residential writers workshop. The aim of the workshop is to provide a focused opportunity in a supportive environment for considerable advancement in writing.

The School of Information Technology (SIT) recently held its annual showcase on Tuesday, 25 October. At the showcase the top 2022 IS Honours and third-year systems development projects were acknowledged.

Twelve honours teams showcased their projects at the SIT Showcase, with the two top honours teams also presenting at the event. The projects provided evidence of cutting-edge technologies solving pressing business problems and adding business value to sponsoring organisations.

The winning team comprised Furqaan Parker Ajmoodien, Goosain Allie, Athir Fayker and Kyle Poggenpoel. Their CLONEX treasure hunt system demonstrates a new way to consignment using NFTs linked to real-life merchandise for LIMITEDRUN, an exclusive Sneaker online store and streetwear brand. Special thanks to Mr. Zaheer Kagee CA (SA) from KPMG who sponsored/handed over the prizes to the winning team.

The showcase was well attended by ten 3rd year teams as well as some of their industry sponsors. The winning team comprised Jack Scott-King, Max C., Ethan Swanepoel and Jennifer van Niekerk (Jenna Jones) who presented their LaunchX African NFT marketplace developed for the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the South African Blockchain Alliance (SANBA). The aim of their project is to aid African Artists to digitise their art whilst also boosting the strength of the African blockchain industry. Special thanks to Mr. Mautsa and Ms. Phethile Ngobe from Deloitte who sponsored/handed over the prizes for the winning team.

(Pictures: provided)

An opinion piece by Pitso Tsibolane on how gig platform workers can survive economic shocks.

OPINION | RIP gig economy? How platform workers can survive a string of economic shocks | Fin24 Platform workers are more vulnerable to job losses, and many face expenses exceeding their pay. Others face threats to their safety. Is there any hope? asks Pitso Tsibolane.

Congratulations to our colleague Meke Kapepo from CHED (EDU programme) for her promotion from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer.

The School of Information Technology, comprising the Departments of Computer Science and Information Systems, cordially invites you to our 2022 Showcase which will once again take place in person. This year the event will take place on Tuesday, 25 October 2022, between 18h00 and 20h00 in Sarah Baartman Hall on Upper Campus at UCT. The event will showcase the research and software development projects of our third-year BCom and BSc finalists, Honours, Masters and PhD students with demonstrations covering a diverse range of topics, including Artificial Intelligence, Computer Games, Computer Graphics, Digital Libraries, Human-Computer Interaction, Cybersecurity, Information Systems and their impacts on society, and many more. In addition to the opportunity to engage with our students about their work, the event will include short presentations by a select group of our Honours projects as well as the presentation of our industry-sponsored awards.

To attend, please RSVP online: https://forms.office.com/r/aEjUWFuHzB

It is with great pleasure and pride to announce that Associate Professor Maureen Tanner has been promoted to the rank of Full Professor effective 1 Jan 2023. Please join us in congratulating Maureen for her ongoing contributions to the field of Information Systems.

Photo: UCT news.

A UCT report on the recent Fairwork launch. Congratulations to Mr. Pitso Tsibolane, Prof. Jean-Paul van Belle and Dr. Sharon Geeling on the release of the annual Fairwork South Africa Ratings results.

New ratings of service apps’ labour practices aim to inform consumer choices Fairwork ratings for service apps show platform workers in South Africa are buckling under the strain of rising costs and safety risks.

Congratulations to the Fairwork team for the successful launch of the fourth report assessing 13 of South Africa’s largest digital labour platforms against five principles of fairness—fair pay, fair conditions, fair contracts, fair management, and fair representation. Report available below:

Fairwork South Africa Ratings 2022: Platform Work Amidst the Cost of Living Crisis More than 1% of the South African workforce finds work via platforms, but our new report finds many of these workers face low pay and dangerous condit

📢 Next week! Don't miss the launch of the ratings

⛽ ️How's the rising affecting rideshare and delivery drivers?
📲 What is SweepSouth GETTOD LIMITED M4JAM (Pty) Ltd. Mr D Food NoSweat Kandua Uber Bolt Picup Droppa inDriver and doing (or not) to support their workers? 📲

Find out on Thurs 8 at 10 AM SAST. Register now at http://fair.work/sa-launch

🗣️ Speakers:
Dr Sharon Geeling, UCT Department of Information Systems
Pitso Tsibolane, UCT Department of Information Systems
Prof Ines Meyer, University of Cape Town
Dr Murali Shanmugavelan, Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford
Prof Jean-Paul Van Belle, UCT Department of Information Systems

WZB Berlin Social Science Center

📢 Next week! Don't miss the launch of the ratings

⛽ ️How's the rising affecting rideshare and delivery drivers?
📲 What is SweepSouth GETTOD LIMITED M4JAM (Pty) Ltd. Mr D Food NoSweat Kandua Uber Bolt Picup Droppa inDriver and doing (or not) to support their workers? 📲

Find out on Thurs 8 at 10 AM SAST. Register now at http://fair.work/sa-launch

🗣️ Speakers:
Dr Sharon Geeling, UCT Department of Information Systems
Pitso Tsibolane, UCT Department of Information Systems
Prof Ines Meyer, University of Cape Town
Dr Murali Shanmugavelan, Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford
Prof Jean-Paul Van Belle, UCT Department of Information Systems

WZB Berlin Social Science Center

Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: Fairwork South Africa Ratings 2022: Platform Work Amidst the Cost of Living Crisis. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar. In the midst of a cost of living crisis, the Fairwork South Africa Report 2022 presents the fourth annual ranking of working conditions in the South African gig economy. Thirteen of the country’s most prominent platforms – Uber, UberEats, Bolt, inDriver, MrD, Droppa, PicUp, getTOD, SweepSouth, N...

Today we hosted the first face-to-face awards ceremony in the School of IT since the lockdown. We presented and celebrated our top-achieving students in IS and CS. They all received class medals, handed over by the Deans of Science and Commerce. We would like to congratulate all of our IS students on their hard work and achievement. The Class Medallists for 2021 included:

FIRST-YEAR:
James Clark

SECOND YEAR
Thifhidzi Rammbuda
Orefile Morule
Manon Shapiro
Adam Vere
Jack Christopher Scott-King
Chetty Shaylin

THIRD YEAR
Phoka Mchunu
Grant Kantor
Athir Fayker
Athir Fayker

POSTGRADUATE / HONOURS
Jenna Grace Jones
Zaakirah Jattiem
Cynthia Jerry Augustine
Jenna Jones

POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMAS
Musani Butale
Hermanus De Beer
Akhil Boddu
Erin Smith
Rainer Francis Gehrmann

MASTERS
Sean De Waal

(Photos supplied).