There is often a digital divide among first-time university students, as disparities in access to technology, digital literacy, and inclusion in remote learning can impact their academic performance. Students with limited exposure to digital tools often face additional challenges navigating digital platforms. This can hinder their engagement and success. To help address this gap, a digital skills training workshop was organised for first-year students in the Department of Biomedical Sciences. The workshop, which was held on 5 March 2025 at the University’s Faculty of Applied and Health Sciences, sought to enhance the freshmen’s proficiency in essential digital technologies. The workshop was led by Dr Maseru Mkhwane, founder of Azibuye Digital Technologies.
The primary goals of the workshop were to introduce students to the concepts of the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI), and to familiarize them with key digital tools critical for academic success. The content was designed in alignment with the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) guidelines, which promote digital literacy across the country, especially in underserved communities. At the conclusion of the workshop, students were provided with certification from NEMISA, affirming their participation and the skills they had gained.
This initiative was made possible by the CEAD support and organised by the Biomedical Sciences Community Engagement Team, who are Nokukhaya Thembane, Roxanne Pillay, Zinigi Jaya, Phumzile Sikosana and Mally Mncube. Thembane, a Senior Lecturer in the Department, said that while this was the inaugural workshop, there are plans to expand and enhance the programme in the future. “Given the positive feedback and outcomes, we look forward to collaborating on follow-up sessions, advanced workshops, and continued digital skills support to ensure students are well-prepared to succeed in the digital age. This initiative not only enhances our community engagement efforts but also supports the strategic integration of ICT in our teaching and learning strategy, equipping students with the necessary tools to navigate an increasingly digital world,” said Thembane. Through this digital skills training, coupled with the existing ICT skills in the curriculum, the organisers aim to empower the students, especially those from less tech-savvy backgrounds, to thrive academically and in their future careers.