University of Johannesburg to hold online forum on creative industries

The UJ Futures and Beyond Forum, which will be held virtually on 16 and 17 March, aims to start a conversation on the development of Africa-led strategies for creativity and innovation in technology. The event is a gathering of leading minds in the creative sector and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Confirmed speakers include UJ vice-chancellor and chairperson of the Presidential Commission for 4IR Prof Tshilidzi Marwala (South Africa), multimedia journalist Emmanuel Gamor (Ghana), computer scientist Wilhelmina Nekoto (Kenya), Pollicy founder and director Neema Iyer (Uganda) and National Arts Festival CEO Monica Newton (South Africa).

“In the advent of a connected Africa, thanks to the ratified Continental Free Trade Agreement, it is imperative that the creative industries explore and exploit convergence of technology and innovation – or 4IR – that can enhance, empower and enable our creative industries to thrive,” Gamor said.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has become a topical subject in South Africa following the release of the Presidential Commission on the 4IR report regarding South Africa’s readiness in 2020. The 4IR debate will focus on new technologies and the need for more skills and investment in science and technology. However, the creative and cultural industries have a critical role to play in the 4IR. The World Economic Forum ranks creativity as the third most important skill out of 10 in today’s workforce.

UJ Arts & Culture and Andani Africa say rapid changes in technology amid the COVID-19 pandemic requires creatives to map the potential of the arts sector. “The creative industries have had to innovate, moving to online formats and seeking alternative revenue strategies through digital platforms. Rather than cancelling most of its activities, the National Arts Festival took the brave step of going entirely online in 2020. So did the Vrystaat Kunstefees and many producers just like UJ arts and culture.”

The UJ Futures and Beyond Forum will begin with a dialogue on the ways in which the creative sector can prepare itself and develop the skills needed to respond to the 4IR. Part of this will be carving out the value and contribution that the arts can bring to future technology through authentic African arts, culture, creativity and innovation. A more detailed programme will be announced soon.

Sign up for the UJ Futures and Beyond Forum here.