Altron partnered with the DIRISA Student Datathon challenge.
Taking place from 1 – 4 December 2024 in Gqeberha, the event was designed to connect university students, researchers, and technology professionals to solve real-world challenges using data science.
This year’s theme, “AI for Social Good,” focused on developing innovative solutions to critical issues, with a particular emphasis on the healthcare sector.
Altron HealthTech provided anonymised primary datasets. Shared in strict compliance with data privacy best practices, these datasets offer participants a unique opportunity to tackle real-world data challenges.
In addition, Altron Digital Business (ADB) supplied the Datathon with tools to ensure participants could execute their projects effectively. This included a Supermicro High-Performance Computer System, provided through distributor Boston, and Microsoft Visual Studio, a platform for advanced analytics and coding.
These resources will help participants create actionable insights and predictive models to address healthcare challenges.
“Data science is a key resource for solving societal challenges,” says Dr Nobubele Shozi, data stewardship manager at the CSIR, which hosts DIRISA under the mandate of the Department of Science and Innovation. “This partnership proves how organisations like CSIR and Altron can work together to advance innovation, improve lives, and build stronger communities across South Africa.”
The DIRISA Student Datathon provided participants with practical experience in data science, critical thinking, and problem-solving, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application. This year’s event challenges participants to address key issues like improving access to care, managing disease burdens, and enhancing patient outcomes.
It also encouraged collaboration and networking, helping participants build connections that could support their future careers.
“Offering internships to the winning participants gives them the opportunity to gain real-world experience in AI and data science,” says Vivekka Ramprasad, executive: human capital at Altron Digital Business. “It also helps us develop a pipeline of skilled talent ready to solve complex problems.”