Artificial Intelligence and regulation in a time of misinformation

By Kyra Boshoff

Artificial Intelligence (AI) that is able to produce human-like communication, otherwise known as generative AI, is quickly changing how we function on a day-to-day basis. By simply using a generative AI tool, it is easy to see that AI can be beneficial to streamline our own productivity. As AI advances it is becoming more powerful in its capabilities, largely in the absence of regulation. Consequently, there have been calls to halt the release of more sophisticated AI platforms until we can ensure the safety of these AI tools. 

One of the most notable calls on this topic came from the Future for Life Institute which drafted an open letter, signed by many prominent figures including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, urging AI creators to pause the development of experimental AI systems until humanity is confident that the effects of AI will be positive and their risks manageable. The Future Life Institute has highlighted in their Policymaking in the Pause document that AI systems are able to create misinformation that appears authentic which may damage the shared factual foundations of society and has the potential to fuel political tensions. These concerns are not just hypothetical, there are examples of generative AI creating misinformation across the globe and South Africa is no exception to this.

Recently in the Johannesburg Regional Court, a matter was heard wherein the Plaintiff’s attorneys in a defamation case searched for legal sources through ChatGPT, a generative AI platform. ChatGPT provided the attorneys with case law that included case names, citations, case facts, and decisions. The attorneys accepted the cases provided and did not conduct any further investigation into the accuracy of the cases, thereafter submitting them to the defendant’s attorneys. It turned out that the cases names, citations, facts and decisions were fictitious and generated by the AI platform. This came to light when the cases could not be sourced online. The Regional Magistrate presiding over the case stated that ‘the efficiency of modern technology still needs to be infused with a dose of good old-fashioned independent reading’. Whilst this misinformation did not cause far-reaching harm, as AI becomes more sophisticated, the potential risks increase. 

It is important then to consider how to curb the tendency of generative AI to create misinformation. Regulation of generative AI is an essential first step to ensuring that AI can exist safely within society. The European Union (EU) has taken steps toward the regulation of AI by drafting a proposal for an Artificial Intelligence Act to ensure that AI systems do not infringe on fundamental rights such as equality, non-discrimination, democracy, freedom, human dignity, data protection, privacy, and rights of the child. The Artificial Intelligence Act provides for the banning of damaging AI practices including harmful manipulative AI systems and proposes enhanced governance. Whilst the Act has not become law within the EU yet, it is the first comprehensive law on AI taking a step forward in the quest to, amongst other aspects, keep AI honest. The Act is set to be negotiated by members of European Parliament in an effort to reach an agreement by the end of 2023.

Currently, there are no laws that regulate the administration of generative AI in South Africa. Recently, the South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA) was established as a body that is intended to promote the advancement of AI in a responsible manner. Its founding members include Google, the Department of Communications and Technology, the Western Cape Government, the University of Johannesburg, Tshwane University of Technology, Webber Wentzel, amongst other notable members.  Whilst the creation of the SAAIA is a step forward for AI oversight in South Africa, there have been no policy initiatives or good practice standards put forward by SAAIA in an effort to encourage AI regulation. Thus, it is important for lawmakers in South Africa to consider taking steps to regulate AI as regulation is the only way to mitigate the risks that AI may pose to South African citizens. The biggest hurdle to AI regulation will be ensuring that regulations stay current with advancing AI technology.

Ideally, the calls to halt the release of more sophisticated AI platforms will be heeded to allow for the development of laws that aim to safeguard the use of AI well into the future.


About the author: Kyra Boshoff is a Programme Quality Practitioner at Boston City Campus; she holds an LLB and LLM from the University of Kwazulu-Natal and is a PhD candidate. She is experienced in lecturing, module development, and supervision and is passionate about teaching and learning.

Mastering the Management Puzzle

Mastering the Management PuzzleThe Game-Changing Postgraduate Diploma from Boston City Campus

As the South African business landscape continues to evolve in the throes of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the complexity of management practice mirrors a puzzle. Just as a puzzle needs all pieces fitting seamlessly together to reveal the full picture, so does effective management practice need an arsenal of up-to-date skills, comprehensive knowledge, and practical experience.

Boston City Campus offers the missing piece to this intricate puzzle with its Postgraduate Diploma in Management. Designed specifically to prepare South African management practitioners for a future punctuated by constant change and complex challenges, the programme paints a vibrant and comprehensive picture of what modern, effective management looks like.

Just as a puzzle piece might be the gateway to connecting the rest, our programme is a stepping-stone to unlock future prospects, paving the way to continuation into a Master’s Degree. By equipping you with a firm understanding of the multifaceted realm of management, from operations and risk control, to human capital needs and change management, you become an indispensable asset to your organisation, driving growth and success.

By the time you’ve completed the two-semester programme, you will have successfully pieced together your management practice puzzle. Our curriculum, carefully designed to reflect the real-world applications and implications of management practice, offers both foundational competencies and advanced skills. The climax of your journey is a research project report that brings all pieces together, demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life business scenarios.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Management at Boston City Campus is more than just a qualification. It is an essential piece to the management practice puzzle that not only completes your skillset but sets you up for a journey of continuous learning and growth. Your journey begins here, where the puzzle pieces of management expertise fit together, building a portrait of a confident, adept, and forward-thinking management practitioner. Secure your piece today by visiting https://tinyurl.com/bccpgdm.


Boston City Campus is an Open Distance e-Learning Higher Education Institution with 47 support centres nationwide, that offers postgraduate qualifications, degrees, diplomas, higher certificates, occupational courses and short learning programmes. Proudly accredited with the British Accreditation Council (BAC), UK, and B-BBEE Level 2 status. Visit our website.

Reflective Evaluation of the Postgraduate Diploma in Management at Boston City Campus

Reflective Evaluation of the Postgraduate Diploma in Management at Boston City Campus

By Dr. Cobus Oosthuizen, Dean of Postgraduate Business Programmes

On the 1st of April 2023, I started with Boston City Campus as Dean of Postgraduate Business Programmes. One of my first objectives was to deep dive into the Postgraduate Diploma in Management and evaluate the curriculum breadth and depth, teaching and learning philosophy, assessment strategies, and student support.

As I delved into the programme, I quickly realised it wasn’t your ordinary postgraduate programme – the robust structure, rich curriculum, and focus on practical application all work in tandem to create an academically rigorous, professionally relevant, and intellectually stimulating experience.

At its core, the programme provides postgraduate students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical methodology, effectively preparing candidates for middle and senior management careers. The forward-thinking approach of the programme stood out to me as it is designed not only for current business environments but also to adapt to future changes, with a clear focus on fostering organisational growth. Students apply theoretical frameworks of operations and risk control to real-life situations, conduct market research, understand branding, analyse financial data, manage human capital, and solve problems; all skills that are integral to a successful management career. Particularly, the emphasis on critical thinking and responsible decision-making resonated with me, highlighting the programme’s focus on creating not just managers, but leaders.

The programme’s structure, spread across two semesters, is well thought through, with a perfect balance between foundational competencies and specialised skills. The careful design of the modules to deliver key management skills pertinent to the dynamic business environment of 4IR is impressive. The first semester provides a robust foundation in strategic operations, financial management, branding, business research methods, and personal and career development.

The second semester then builds upon this foundation, introducing global marketing strategies, human capital and talent management, business law, and negotiation techniques. What stands out is the inclusion of a rigorous research project report, emphasising the programme’s commitment to the practical application of theory. It is through this research component, and the didactic approach underpinning the making of new meanings by students, that the Boston City Campus Postgraduate Diploma in Management sets itself apart from other South African postgraduate diplomas in management. The focus on empirical problem-solving, idea generation, and the ability to defend an in-depth research report inculcates a strong and applied research mindset, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Furthermore, the inclusion of elective modules offering specialisations in Advanced Entrepreneurship, Advanced Project Management, or Strategic Supply Chain Management, adds a layer of customisation to the programme, allowing students to tailor their learning towards their career aspirations. Another value-add is the programme’s ability to lay a solid foundation for further studies, encouraging graduates to pursue Master’s Degree studies in various areas of Commerce and Management, both locally and internationally.

Notably, the programme also garnered high praise from both active students and valued graduates, highlighting the success in fostering an enriching, effective, and responsive learning environment. Most Boston City Campus students embark on this educational journey with specific career objectives in mind, and it was thrilling to know that the programme offers them a road map to realise their professional dreams. I noted that Boston City Campus takes great pride in how the programme significantly contributes to the personal growth of students, a testament to the majority of the graduates. The programme’s ability to not just meet, but exceed expectations, speaks volumes about its transformative potential. Boston City Campus is deeply honoured to be a part of the students’ journeys towards becoming proficient and empowered professionals, equipped to take on the challenges of the management world.

In conclusion, the Postgraduate Diploma in Management at Boston City Campus is a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, designed to produce graduates who are prepared to face the challenges of the complex and ever-changing business environment. Its comprehensive curriculum, focus on critical thinking problem-solving skills, and potential for personalisation, make it stand out among its South African counterparts, and its global standard is expressed through Boston’s accreditation with the British Accreditation Council (BAC), United Kingdom. Reflecting on this programme, I am proud to be associated with it, and can confidently say that it equips students with the requisite competencies to navigate and lead in the rapidly evolving business landscape, thereby fostering a new generation of effective managers and leaders.

Boston’s positioning in the open, distance and e-learning mode of provisioning makes this the ideal qualification to undertake if one needs time flexibility and a study anywhere-anytime approach. Without needing to be in a specific location at a specific time, candidates can continue to manage the demands of life and work while advancing their career opportunities. For more information please visit one of our 47 learner support centres countrywide, or download the programme’s Fact Sheet and our Prospectus online at www.boston.co.za

Start studying 31 July – Apply and Register today!

The Tassle Was Worth The Hassle

A testimonial from recent graduate, Leyla van Greuning

Today I graduated with a degree: Bachelor of Commerce in Management Marketing from Boston City Campus, which I am so proud to say I funded myself!

Story time!

In 2017, I won a bursary to study at Boston City Campus for a year when I won Miss Million Dollar hosted by Henley and Valria. I completed my Higher Certificate in Marketing Practices in 2019 and enjoyed it so much that I decided to do my degree through Boston too.

There were many sleepless nights, tears, feelings of being overwhelmed, and loads of coffee, but it was SO worth it!

Mommy, I honestly could not have done this without you. Thank you for always being there for me and supporting and motivating me throughout the three years. Bringing me coffee, cake, food, tea, chocolate, Red Bull when I was studying and keeping quiet in the background while I was writing exams. I appreciate it more than you know. I am so grateful and blessed to have you as my momma!

To Hanlery Bouwer and Valria Ferreira, thank you for such a prestigious prize, introducing me to Boston City Campus and having a hand in my tertiary education journey.

And to everybody else who supported me on my journey, thank you for the words of wisdom and encouragement. It has always meant the world to me and definitely made it a little easier.

Study Tips from Masego Pali

Masego Pali is a second-year Diploma in Business Management student from BCC Sandton

  1. From week one, I make sure I complete my weekly activities and the module for that week.
  2. Make sure you cover 10 pages of each module every day, this will help lighten the workload.
  3. Our portal provides visual study material, utilize it, Sometimes it shortens the module but covers the important content.
  4. When I struggle to understand anything I never hesitate to contact the lecturer of that module. They are always willing to help.
  5. Never leave your assignments for the last minute. Pace yourself accordingly throughout the semester.

Exams are coming up try the 10 pages method to prepare. Good luck!!!

HOD: Commerce Department & Grade Head – and Best Teacher Ever!

Florance Vermeulen is a Boston City Campus Somerset West Graduate! We requested to interview this successful grad, and being the consummate educator that he is, he sent us a word perfect interview! So , in his own words – meet Florance, Boston BCom Grad and award winning teacher!!

“I am a consummate teacher with a passion and vibrant gift to allow learners to grow in their learning experiences and competencies. During these past 5 years in teaching, my approach is to focus, inside and outside the classroom, on the learner whole, using education and my subject as the basis for growing learners into holistic responsible people with a meaningful place in their communities as explained below. 
 
My professional development and interest in teaching and learning stem from my involvement and participation in projects in communities outside the classroom. Since 2015, I volunteered to be the president of an internationally funded holistic educational initiative programme called, Give a Child a Future USA – Cape Scholars Foundation, for scholars in the Cape Winelands district. I developed a programe that aims to bolster better overall education by implementing mentorship and an academic program focusing on an elite group of learners from the public schools in Stellenbosch.  The selection is based on assessments conducted by me and other qualified educators. The mission, therefore, is to create opportunities for the learners, from grades 10 -12 to attain skills that will facilitate personal, social, educational, and economic development. I strongly believe that no learner should and must be left behind due to a lack of resources, support, and guidance.  The program consists of three separate but integrated components of learning and teaching. Firstly, it provides professional tutoring in Mathematics and English, conducted by qualified educators and specialists. Furthermore, the learners have access to career guidance counseling, psychometric assessments, and work readiness workshops performed by qualified individuals. Finally, we provide four-weekend mentorship camps; one per term, over a period of three years which contributes to identifying their strengths, developmental areas, interests, skills and dreams, and aspirations as future leaders. Part of measuring the success or impact of this program is evident in those who have gone on to furthering their education and revert to share their experience of the program with the new cohort.”

So Florance, where does all the music come from?

“ I see Art as my form of liberator, my inspiration and passion that empowers me to motivate my learners to deal with difficult circumstances. I give expression especially through dance to enable and empower disadvantaged learners with confidence, self-expression, and discipline. I recognise creativity as somewhat second nature to children in that they can develop fundamental critical thinking and problem-solving skills that they can incorporate into all other learning areas of education and life. I implement innovative alternatives to teaching and learning in the classroom- those that keep bringing material to life for my learners. This artistic approach creates a special connection between me as an educator and all the learners beyond the classroom. My personal history drives part of my teaching philosophy, that everybody given the right motivation can become a positive and powerful change in education

 
I am a living example of Albert Einstein’s philosophy, “I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn”. This, therefore, builds on my passion, patience, and nurturing nature outside of the classroom too. I have always approached the art forms in a very holistic manner to enable a behavioral change model in teaching and learning. Moving away from the traditional form of teaching and learning, generating a learner-centered approach. Keep in mind that learners always have challenges understanding content and applying it which generates a barrier to learning within a particular subject. I, therefore, use three elements within my teaching and learning approaches namely, music, movements, and technology.”

Why music?
“The music and movement I use have the ability to develop fundamental creative cognitive skills that learners can incorporate in a subject that is content-rich. It also becomes a behavioural module for both personal and learning abilities. It is fun and upbeat which generates teacher and learner engagement and improves their concentration when dealing with a particular subject. Learners have the ability to participate and gain cooperative teaching and learning approaches, and it also allows me as a teacher to develop trusting relationships with the content and convinces the learner that within learning we can have fun with a beat. Knowing that I am working with learners who are the generation Z and usually influenced by music itself; hip hop/ afro-beats is one of the genres that most learners gravitate toward or connect with. I use it to bridge the gap between a content-rich subject and barriers to learning. Learners are always amazed, connected, and join in at the drop of the first beat”.  

Boston has always used technology based learning methodologies, we see that you are also in favour of this form of learning?


“Knowing that technology is an integrated tool for teaching and learning, I utilize the digital hub and resources at our school twice a week. I use the space and resources to introduce technology to them in a fun and exciting way, they are able to use technology, and find, and critically evaluate information.  They are also equipped with basic Microsoft Word and PowerPoint presentation skills. This allows my learners to navigate confidently and acquire skills that are needed for the 4th industrial revolution (4IR) slowly but surely. 

In light of the above, it allows me to become very innovative and holistic and to think outside the box within my teaching and learning methodologies and pedagogical approaches. It empowers me to learn from learners and with them, fostering subjective teaching and learning culture. It constantly allows me to rediscover my passion for teaching and learning and simultaneously become resilient to seize the change within the challenges of barriers to learning. Learners become more enthusiastic about the subject. It instills a yearning for having fun whilst learning and challenges their cognitive skills, bridging the gap of barriers to learning. They became eager to acquire the necessary knowledge which allows them to actively participate and apply their knowledge to the content.  Evidently, it does not only show a marked difference in learner academic results but also behavioural challenges have tremendously decreased. They generated positive vibrations, influencing their behaviour and cognitive skills to a positive and enjoyable outcome. 
 
In conclusion, I am elated as to how I can inspire and instill values, dreams, and aspirations in the leaders of tomorrow. I am moved by the endless possibilities I can provide for my learners by exploring the potential each and every one of them possess. The sky is not the limit, and I am surely moving universes with everything I can achieve with the young fruitful individuals of South Africa”. 

Florance’s qualifications:

Formal training: 

Advanced Diploma in Professional Acting for Camera: City Varsity (Cape Town)

BCom in Management Marketing: Boston City Campus (Somerset West)

PGCE: STADIO HigherEducation

Excellent Assistance from Amanda

We love feedback from our students , especially feedback as glowing as this! Well done #TeamBoston #BCCBellville and thank you @TiaanSmit!!

Tiaan Smit

Good day Ms. Monk,  Hope you are well.

 I would just like to take the time to recognize the efforts and time Amanda has spent with me over the past year, as my student advisor she has been here every step of the way. She has assisted me with last-minute requests, and changes of exam venues and always responds to my emails in a timely and polite manner.   I started with Boston as part of the Amazon Career Choice program and from next year will be doing my BCom Law privately she has been so helpful during the process of changing qualifications, she is assisting with applying for credits and answering all my lists of questions and trust me there was a lot.

As someone that has done various short courses through other institutions and a partial law degree with another instution, I have never received this level of support and it played a deciding factor in why I chose to stay with Boston during this time. Amanda is amazing at her work, never talks down or answers with sarcasm and I always get responses without chasing. She is truly a major asset to your company and I believe all your advisors should be of her calibre. I hope she gets a big increase and a nice xmas bonus cause she deserves it if nothing else to at least be recognized! I know students are quick to complain but when the job is done well I must recognize that too.

Amanda is everything one wants in a student advisor and more. I highly appreciate it and just wanted to say thank you to her and your institution for all the support the past year and I look forward to the journey ahead.

Have a great day further and a blessed festive season.  Kind regards,

Tiaan

Feedback on Gradstar Gala Awards Dinner

The Gradstar Gala Awards Dinner was held at the Indaba Hotel, and it turned out to be a very swish affair! Gradstar flew all 100 finalists to Joburg and paid for their accommodation.

They were given over the period of four days, workshops, coaching and mentoring from the sponsoring employers. So what did the Boston students have to say?

Gabisile from Soweto told us that this has been a life-changing experience and she can’t wait to get back to campus and share what she has learnt

Nthabiseng from Germiston said the same,  and she is actually going to be a Gradstar ambassador going forward!

So while they were not selected for the top 10, getting into the top 100 out of 8000 was an enormous achievement!

Our two finalists were surprised and thrilled that a Boston director, senior manager and I were there to share their success – it meant a lot to them.

I could see why they got to the top 100 – very articulate, engaging and dynamic young ladies.

(We would like to acknowledge the selection in the top 100 of Jennisha from Umhlanga, even though she couldn’t come to Joburg due to a family emergency.)

Attendees heard an inspiring address by Hennie Heymans, the CEO of DHL Express, the lead sponsor of Gradstar.

Eric Albertini, COO of Future Fit Academy, head of the judging panel, explained the criteria they used throughout this whole process of assessment, to select future leaders who can ‘disrupt’, and not only survive but thrive in the ever-changing world and workplace – it’s mostly about ‘being’ (this will sound familiar to some of you!)

The audience enjoyed entertainment by Simmy, then all 100 finalists were called up and given a certificate before the top 10 were announced.

And then we left – but the youngsters partied on! Although Gabisile told us they had a workshop starting at 07:00 the next day ….

How to create a winning formula in job searching

How to create a winning formula in job searching

Whether you are just starting out in your job search, or looking to upgrade your current position, applying effective strategies can help make your search easier.

Wondering just where to start? Branch Manager of Boston City Campus, Maponya Mall, Merriam Koqo‑Hlengane​ provides her top tips on conducting an effective job search.

Setting time aside

Create momentum by allocating a specific amount of time for research, setting up appointments and following up on applications.

“Prepare the night before, setting up your list, so that you create an organised infrastructure allowing you to start right away,” says Koqo‑Hlengane.

Mindset

Anticipate that there may be some challenging times, when you may experience frustration because things aren’t moving as quickly as you would like.  See this time as a process.  Some days may be relatively quiet.  Be gentle with yourself, knowing that ups and downs are a natural part of job searching.

Networking

Think of people who are already in your network and who would be able to make any recommendations where you can apply. Former colleagues, managers or people from graduate school should all have some ideas. (Consult with the Boston Graduate Support Services). Try LinkedIn and see who you can contact digitally.

“LinkedIn is also an excellent place to find jobs in your particular field. A LinkedIn profile can serve as a good advertisement of your competencies and experience to prospective employers and HR managers,” says Koqo‑Hlengane​.

Your online footprint

It is common practice for future employees to research your online profile in order to find out more about you.  The flip side of the coin is true as well – ensure your online social media profiles would be acceptable to a potential employer.

The Covering letter

Once you find a job or company where you want to apply, create a covering letter, highlighting your key qualities and experience in relation to the particular job specifications.

Where to look

Google is your friend when it comes to your job search.  Keywords such as your industry + the position you are looking for will bring up specific sites dealing with your particular field and offering relevant positions.

“Searching online helps you to get to know the job market and what is being offered out there,” says Koqo‑Hlengane.  “It can also help you to see if you need to brush up on any skills. You may need to register for a short course or qualification to increase your eligibility in finding your ideal position.”

What are you offering?

Write down your skills: soft skills such as having a strong work ethic, being a team player, solution orientated, communication and adaptability and love of learning.  Note your strengths – professional competencies in which you excel and which can make you an ideal candidate.

Continuous learning

Whether you are just starting out or if you are looking to take the next step in your career, it is important to sustain your relevancy in your industry through continuous learning.  There are many short courses or even additional degrees or post-graduate diplomas to such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Management which can be studied part-time and which can set you on a career path of success.

Prepare for your interview

Prepare mentally for your interview by going over the possible questions and seeing yourself answering them.  You can even do a mock interview with a colleague or friend, helping you to be more prepared and more relaxed in the actual interview situation.

Take action

You have to know that you are going to get Yes’s and No’s.  Prepare yourself –you need to persevere. 

 “Make this into a learning experience,” says Koqo‑Hlengane. Always try to get feedback if things don’t work out – it helps you grow professionally and personally.

Keep on.  Face the challenges.  Be flexible. If a strategy isn’t working, then maybe you need to adjust it.  Eventually you are going to find your match.  “You’ve got this!” Concludes the Boston Branch Manager.

The career for now and the future

An interesting point of view from model and graduate  – Andries Marakalala!

Andries MarakalalaAndries Marakalala is an IT technician at Boston City Campus, he is part of the head office troubleshooting team! We caught up with him to find out what makes him tick, and why he chose IT as a profession. “I’ve always been truly interested in how technology works, especially how quickly it is developing, which is why I decided to do ICT. Plus, I was well advised by my mentor while I was still in college, and ICT appeared to have high job satisfaction and excellent long-term possibilities for professional progression. I therefore believed that this career suited both my personal interests and professional objectives”, says Andries.

He started off with formal training in IT, including: Technical Workshops (Basics troubleshooting)

I.T Networking Workshops (Installing cables. Configuring Switches) which he studies at Boston.  On day to day basis you will find him putting these skills into practice as he finds himself, “Responsible for installing, maintaining, and fixing hardware and software. support via remote access or site visits as necessary”. So you can see that ICT is not really a desk job, especially not in a nationally based organisation.

Aside from being on the go and with people, Andries loves “Sharing my knowledge and abilities with those in need gives me a wonderful sense of satisfaction, there is always something new to explore and something new to learn”.  And what does he enjoy the least in his job? “There are times when the job can be very repetitive “.

On an average day he is kept on the go with these tasks:

  • Responding to emails
  • Resolving tickets
  • Answering calls

So what does he believe are the most important traits to have to be successful in this job?

  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Pay attention to detail
  • Good communication skills

In trying to describe his job in one sentence , Andries says, “Setting up workstations with computers and required peripherals, ensuring the operation of computer hardware

installing and setting up the right software and functionalities in accordance with the requirements.” That’s quite a job description, and shows the tenacity ad perseverance you will need in ICT fro problem solving and continued growth and learning. According to Andries , this is very much a career where you nee both formal training as well as good practical experience. “I recommend the Boston qualifications of : Diploma in Network Systems , Networking Technician and Security Analyst”.

Personality-wise, Andries feels that you need to :

  • Be able to adapt to a changing work environment
  • Having good communication skills
  • Ability to work with your hands for repairs and installations.

The nature of people needing their ICT up and running NOW has created on the job challenges for Andries. “ Working under pressure, particularly when a deadline is involved” is a challenge for him.

Andries has advice for grade 11 and grade 12 learners. “Always do your research first. A career in information technology only makes sense if you are interested by computers. Every day will be an opportunity for interesting activities, and you might be amazed by the ways in which technology is used in various fields.” And you have to be prepared for lifelong learning. “Considering how 4IR is expanding, it goes without saying that you must stay current with technology and continue to learn new things.”

Andries ends with a recommendation for studies at Boston. “My IT career began at Boston Braamfontein, where I had the best experience. I then had to relocate to Boston Orange Grove, where I had to meet a lot of people and make friends – some of whom are still close friends of mine. Orange Grove extended a very good welcome to me, showing me a lot of care and love from the staff. I had to develop my independence and my capacity for self-reliance. I would suggest both branches to anyone interested in studying at Boston City Campus. Trust me, they will make you feel at home, and their friendliness is simply outstanding!”