“VUT hosted a workshop by Dr Michelle Goosen on digitisation, exploring how tech can preserve South Africa’s cultural and linguistic heritage inclusively.”
28 October 2025 | Story: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Photo: Supplied
2 minutes read time.
On 23 October 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted an insightful workshop titled Digitisation and Digitalisation: Practical Insights and Applications, organised by the Centre for Academic Development (CAD). The session unpacked how digital transformation can enhance the preservation and accessibility of South Africa’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
Dr Michelle Goosen, Postdoctoral Fellow in the Faculty of Human Sciences, emphasised the urgent need to digitise South Africa’s official languages, many of which remain under-represented online due to historical, political, and economic inequalities.
“Digitisation is not just about technology; it’s about preserving identity,” said Dr Goosen. “When we digitise our heritage, we keep it alive for future generations.”
Opening the event, Mr Bongani Khoza, Administrative Assistant from CAD, encouraged participants to embrace digital change with enthusiasm and curiosity.
“Digitalisation is more than just converting documents,” he noted. “It’s about preserving knowledge and ensuring access for all. Don’t be scared of the boards, they won’t kill you!”
Dr Goosen also referenced the National Policy on the Digitalisation of Arts, Culture, and Heritage, approved by Cabinet in March 2023, which underscores the importance of safeguarding analogue materials that are at risk of disappearing.
In closing, Mr Thabang Molatou, Language Practitioner at VUT, praised the workshop’s impact on knowledge sharing and digital awareness.
“Digital transformation starts with each of us,” he said. “Together, we can ensure our languages and knowledge are preserved in digital form.”
The workshop concluded on an inspiring note, reinforcing VUT’s commitment to digital literacy, inclusivity, and the preservation of cultural identity in an increasingly digital world.