Tshimologong, the recently launched digital innovation hub in Johannesburg's inner city, has received millions in contributions from reputed multinationals and South African ICT companies, reports ITWeb. Ten strategic founding partners have ploughed upwards of ZAR 5 million each into the newly built precinct, which plans to incubate high-tech startups, commercialise research and develop high-level skills among students, working professionals and unemployed young people.
Cathy Smith, MD at Cisco Systems Southern Africa explained why the global IT company is championing the establishment of Tshimologong, along with the likes of Microsoft, IBM, Telkom, MMI Group and Teraco/KMJ Services. Smith said that the need for skills is particularly important to Cisco and that this influenced the decision to back the project.
Barry Dwolatzky, Professor of Software Engineering in the Wits School of Electrical and Information Engineering, says Tshimologong will improve and add to the number of social and working spaces, learning and meeting places, "makerspaces" and digital content locations over time. Prospective members or sponsors can secure part of a space at a fee of ZAR 1,500 per month in order for the venue to becoming self-sustainable, according to Dwolatzky. He added that up to 400 members can be accommodated at the precinct at its official opening.
Dwolatzky says the university has not contributed money to the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct and it is funded by donors on the whole. The innovation precinct also receives support to the tune of more that ZAR 5 million from the Gauteng Province Department of E-Government, City of Johannesburg, Airports Company of South Africa and the Technology Innovation Agency.
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Quelle/Source: Telecompaper, 05.09.2016
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