The future of AI in KwaZulu-Natal will be unpacked at the KZN AI Summit

Every industry, workplace, and educational institution is being reshaped by artificial intelligence (AI), and industry leaders need to have a full grasp of how to leverage this innovation. The KZN AI Summit 2026 in Umhlanga on Thursday, 22 October, is bringing together leaders from business, government, academia, and technology to explore how the province can harness this rapidly evolving technology for economic growth.

Organised by the KZN AI Foundation NPC, with event host and anchor sponsor Alpvest Institute for FutureTech (AIFT), the full-day summit is themed Connecting the Brightest Minds of AI in KZN. The platform is an opportunity to contribute to the conversation around future-ready skills and the role of education in preparing people for an AI-enabled economy.

“KwaZulu-Natal has the opportunity to connect local talent and innovation with global possibilities. Education is central to that ambition,” says Jay Ramnundlall, Group CEO of AIFT. “At AIFT, we aim to equip school leavers, unemployed young people, and working professionals with the knowledge and practical capabilities to use emerging technologies, respond to employers’ needs and build enterprises of their own.”

Jay notes that AI is changing the skills people need, the way organisations operate, and the opportunities available to the next generation: “This summit brings educators, industry, government and entrepreneurs together to explore how AI can support career development, business innovation and employment opportunities. We want these discussions to lead to practical collaborations and learning opportunities that address real education and workplace needs.”

AIFT, which was previously founded as PC Training & Business College, has developed a portfolio of 22 new higher education qualifications supporting this direction, spanning AI, future technologies, as well as business and emerging ICT fields. Notable examples include a BCom in AI and a BSc in FutureTech.

Seven tracks explore AI’s impact across the economy

The summit comes as South Africa experiences growing investment in AI infrastructure, with KwaZulu-Natal looking to strengthen its position in the country’s technology ecosystem. Discussions will examine the implications for employment, skills development, business competitiveness, and public services.

1.       AI Policy & Governance

2.       Southern African Development Community (SADC) States & AI Leadership

3.       Smart Cities & Municipal AI

4.       Academic Institutions' AI Revolution

5.       AI for Economic Sectors

6.       Entrepreneurship, AI Innovation & Opportunities

7.       The Future of Artificial Intelligence

“We’ll be unpacking these in detail, including technology’s potential to transform public services, academic institutions, and commercial sectors, as well as data-driven decision-making and the potential application of AI to traffic, energy and waste management,” says Ramnundlall.

With education central to all of this, there will also be a focus on curriculum transformation, research and innovation, collaboration between academia and industry, and the development of skills needed in an AI-driven job market. Beyond this, discussions will be held around applications across agriculture, retail, financial services, gaming and creative industries, as well as opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

An informed panel of experts

Keynotes, panel discussions, and networking opportunities will give delegates the chance to exchange perspectives and explore potential collaborations. Interactive workshops are also planned, with live demonstrations and exhibition stands.

Programme speakers and moderators include, among others:

• Hon Siboniso Duma, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlement
• Prof Pfano Mashau, Director of Durban University of Technology’s Business School
• Prof Louis Fourie, AIFT’s Senate Chairperson
• Dr Chang Hwan Kim, an African development expert associated with Oxford University and Columbia University
• Prof Gabriel Kabanda, Head of Doctoral Programmes at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Graduate School of Business and Leadership
• Zamokwakhe Dlamini, Deputy Director of Digital Economy Capabilities Research at the Department of Science and Innovation
• Prof Akandwanaho, Professor of AI, North-West University
• Andiswa Khumalo, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Manager for End User Computing at the State Information Technology Agency
• Deneshni Pillay, Head of Operations at BET Software
• Dr Ashna Sivai, AIFT Dean: Faculty of Commerce and Digital Technology
• Nandisa Ngubelanga, Innohance Digital
• Sajana Bidesi, Evra Technologies
• Chris Carter, GeoAfrika Technologies
• Dr Praveen Vasala, AIFT’s Chief Academic Officer
• Donovan Marsh of DragonStudio AI

Book launch: A focus on human capability in an AI-driven world

Alongside discussions and demonstrations will be the launch of Jay Ramnundlall’s book, The Human Advantage - Judgement, Responsibility, Leadership in the age of Artificial Intelligence, exploring the importance of human capabilities in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Physical copies will be available for sale, and digital copies will be available to delegates at no additional cost.

AI Summit Gala Dinner Details

The day will culminate in an evening Gala Dinner, extending the opportunity for delegates and guests to connect beyond the conference sessions.

Date: Thursday, 22 October 2026

Venue: L’Aperitivo

Time: 6.30pm for 7pm start

Enquiries: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 071 591 6000

KZN AI Summit 2026 Event Details

Date: Thursday, 22 October 2026

Venue: Alpvest Conference Centre, Royal Palm Hotel, 4–9 Palm Boulevard, Umhlanga, opposite Gateway Theatre of Shopping

Time: Doors open at 8am SAST

Programme: www.kznaisummit.co.za

Enquiries: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 071 591 6000

Social media: KZN Ai Summit on Facebook | @kznai_summit on Instagram

For AIFT, the summit aligns with its wider focus on education and future-facing disciplines: The institute offers programmes spanning technology-focused fields, including AI, robotics and data science, alongside business, management and entrepreneurship. Its stated approach combines technical learning with the broader capabilities needed to participate in changing industries.

KZN AI Summit 2026 Frequently Asked Questions

1.    When and where is the KZN AI Summit 2026 taking place?

The KZN AI Summit takes place on Thursday, 22 October 2026, at the Alpvest Conference Centre, Royal Palm Hotel, 4–9 Palm Boulevard, Umhlanga, opposite Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Doors open at 8am, with the full-day programme culminating in an evening gala dinner at L’Aperitivo.

2.    What topics will be covered at the KZN AI Summit?

The summit will explore seven key themes, including AI policy and governance, regional AI leadership, smart cities, education and skills development, industry applications, entrepreneurship, and the future of artificial intelligence. Delegates can expect keynote presentations, panel discussions, networking opportunities, interactive workshops, demonstrations and exhibition stands.

3.   Who should attend the KZN AI Summit, and what can delegates expect to gain from the event?

The KZN AI Summit is aimed at business leaders, entrepreneurs, technology professionals, educators, academics, policymakers and anyone interested in understanding the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions, demonstrations and networking, delegates can explore practical AI applications, emerging industry trends, skills development and responsible adoption.

Keep updated on AIFT news:

Website: www.aift.co.za

Instagram: @alpvest_institute

Facebook: Alpvest Institute for Future Tech

YouTube: @Alpvest

TikTok: @alpvest_institute

LinkedIn: Alpvest Institute for FutureTech