“VUT students showcased groundbreaking innovations at the 2026 Hackathon, presenting tech solutions for community, water and housing challenges.”
12 May 2026 | Story by: Siphiwe Sadiki | Picture: Peter Masela
5 minutes read time.
Innovation, creativity and problem solving took centre stage as the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted its 2026 Hackathon at the CAD African Language Auditorium, Vanderbijlpark Campus, on 08 May 2026.
Bringing together ambitious young innovators from different disciplines, the event created a dynamic platform for students to use technology to tackle real life challenges affecting communities, businesses and student life. From smart water management systems to digital accommodation platforms and community reporting tools, the hackathon showcased how student innovation can evolve into practical solutions capable of making a meaningful social impact.
The atmosphere throughout the day reflected more than competition. It became a celebration of collaboration, entrepreneurship and the growing role young people continue to play in shaping South Africa’s digital future.
Serving as programme director was Mr Michael Kaniki, a third year Information Technology (IT) student, who guided the event with professionalism and energy.
Welcoming guests, judges, staff members and students, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Sciences, Dr Prince Sekwatlakwatla, encouraged participating teams to present their ideas with confidence and embrace the opportunity to showcase their creativity and technical abilities.
The keynote address was delivered by Associate Professor from the Department of Computer Sciences, Professor Rene Van Eck, whose presentation focused on technological innovation, research and the responsibility young people carry in shaping the future of the digital economy.
Adding an entrepreneurial perspective to the programme, the VUT Entrepreneurship Ecosystem presentation was led by Commercialisation Coordinator and Executive Assistant, Ms Mmatshepo Rathebe. Using a motivational video showing one individual dancing alone before others gradually joined in, she challenged students to think about leadership, courage and the power of starting even when support is not immediately visible.
“From the video you just watched, who do you want to be?” she asked the audience.
Her message encouraged students not to fear standing alone in the early stages of innovation because every successful idea begins with someone willing to take the first step. She further unpacked the difference between innovation and entrepreneurship, explaining that innovation focuses on creating solutions, while entrepreneurship transforms those ideas into opportunities capable of creating value and impact.
Ms Rathebe also announced that the winning teams would progress to the regional competition at the University of the Free State QwaQwa Campus (UFS), where they would compete against institutions including Sol Plaatje University, North-West University (NWU) and UFS the University of the Free State.
The highlight of the hackathon came during the student presentations, where teams unveiled innovative solutions designed to address pressing societal and community challenges.
Taking first place was Tech Vative with their project titled “Smart Community Reporting Web.” The system aims to improve communication between residents and local authorities by enabling communities to report service delivery issues such as potholes through an online platform. The team demonstrated features including real time reporting and faster response mechanisms, showing how technology can strengthen accountability and improve municipal responsiveness.
The judges engaged the group during an interactive question and answer session to better understand the long-term social impact and sustainability of the system.
Second place went to Logic Programmers for their project “WaterWise Sensor.” Developed in response to ongoing water shortages and water leak challenges affecting communities, the innovation uses smart sensor technology to detect pipe leaks, monitor water usage and assist irrigation systems.
The presenters explained how the system could reduce water bills through efficient water management and solar powered technology. Judges praised the project for both its practicality and environmental relevance, particularly at a time when water conservation continues to be a national concern.
The third-place winners, The Innovation Hub, introduced their project titled “Autoplay App,” a digital platform aimed at helping students secure accommodation before arriving at university.
The team explained that many students travelling from provinces such as Limpopo and the Eastern Cape often struggle to find accommodation after arriving late in the Vaal region. Their application allows students to apply for accommodation remotely while still at home. One of the application’s standout features was a facial recognition system designed to improve security and simplify the verification process for landlords and accommodation providers.
Following the presentations, Director of IT Services at VUT, Mr Yegash Naidu, delivered another motivational keynote address focused on “Innovation in the 22nd Century.” Drawing from his own professional journey, he encouraged students to understand themselves, study industry trends and remain adaptable while developing innovative ideas and business solutions.
One of the most memorable moments from his address came through a simple but powerful message: “Just do it.”
Naidu encouraged students not to fear failure, but instead to remain flexible enough to learn, adapt and improve their strategies when challenges arise. He reminded aspiring innovators that ideas only gain value when transformed into action through hard work, persistence and execution.
The event concluded with an award ceremony recognising the top three teams for their innovation, teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Closing remarks were delivered by Acting Senior Manager of the Technology Transfer Office (TTO), Mr Thabo Kgole, who thanked organisers, judges, staff members and students for contributing to the success of the event.
He also acknowledged the commitment shown by participating teams, noting that many students spent the entire night refining and practising their presentations before stepping onto the stage.
The 2026 VUT Hackathon ultimately demonstrated far more than technical skill. It highlighted the power of youth innovation, collaboration and entrepreneurship while reminding students that technology, when combined with creativity and purpose, can become a powerful tool for transforming communities and improving lives across South Africa.