MUT Focus Conference

The Teaching and Learning Directorate hosts the 2026 Teaching with Technology Summit, with various speakers covering different topics.

Teboho Semmelink talks about The utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of minute-taking and meeting documentation

presents an innovative approach to enhancing organizational efficiency and effectiveness. By harnessing

advanced AI algorithms, it becomes feasible to record accurate meeting minutes, succinctly summarize

discussions, and generate actionable follow-up tasks with minimal manual input. This automation not only

reduces the administrative burden on participants but also ensures a higher degree of precision and

comprehensiveness in documentation.

By adhering to these best practices, organizations can optimize the impact of AI in enhancing their

minute-taking processes, ensuring that critical insights and action items are accurately captured and

effectively communicated.

Danny Venter talks about Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can significantly enhance the efficiency of project planning, facilitate task

delegation, and streamline progress tracking. These innovative tools empower office professionals to

effectively manage intricate projects, ensuring that all aspects are coordinated seamlessly to meet the

expectations of their line managers. By leveraging AI capabilities, teams can optimize workflows, priorities

tasks, and monitor milestones, ultimately leading to improved productivity and project outcomes.

Lonwabo Ntsinde talks about AI in project management- Boosting collaboration and Efficiency

Dr. Thandeka Ellenson is a trailblazing leader who has made a lasting impact in her field. Currently,

she serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Moses Kotane Research Institute, where she

oversees the implementation of provincial research and innovation mandates. Her journey to this

role is marked by dedication, hard work, and a passion for excellence.

With a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree from Columbia Southern University, Dr.

Ellenson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Her leadership style is

characterized by action-oriented approaches that drive growth and progress. She values respect,

continuous learning, and excellence, which are evident in her work.

Before becoming the CEO of the Moses Kotane Research Institute, Dr. Ellenson served as the Chief

Financial Officer (CFO) of the same institute, where she honed her skills in financial management

and strategic planning. This experience laid a strong foundation for her current role, enabling her

to drive innovation and growth.

Dr. Ellenson has also made significant contributions in other areas, pioneering various provincial

strategies in KwaZulu-Natal and contributing to the region's economic development and growth.

Her experience spans both the public and private sectors, and she is known for her commitment

to fostering positive relationships and driving innovation.

Dr. Ellenson is also an accomplished author, having penned the book "Authentic Leadership

Mindset". Her commitment to respect, continuous learning, and excellence is inspiring. As a

respected leader, she continues to make a meaningful impact in her community.

Some of her key strengths and values include:

- Leadership: Proven track record of driving growth and progress through action-oriented

approaches

- Strategic Thinking: Expertise in developing and implementing provincial strategies for economic

development

- Innovation: Passionate about promoting research and innovation to drive economic growth

- Values: Respect, continuous learning, and excellence are core to her leadership philosophy

- Author: Published author of "Authentic Leadership Mindset", showcasing her expertise in

leadership development.

Dr Thandeka Ellenson

CEO of the Moses Kotane

Research Institute

Lonwabo Ntsinde is a co-founder of CloudNala, a Microsoft-certified enterprise

From Customer Centricity to AI

Empowerment: Our Journey

Together

EAC Convener and Founder , Mbali Mkhize

Twelve years ago, the Empowered

Administrators Conference was born out

of a vision to elevate the role of office

professionals—shifting perceptions and

unlocking potential in one of the most

critical engines of organisational success.

We began with a sharp focus on customer

centricity, understanding that service

excellence was the bedrock of

professional value.

As the workplace evolved, so did we. We

expanded our mission to sharpen

technology skills, enabling administrators

to embrace digital tools that enhance

efficiency and communication. From

mastering productivity platforms to

developing an agile mindset, our

delegates became indispensable,

tech-savvy assets in their workplaces.

But technical skill alone isn’t enough.

That’s why we infused our programme

with strategies to enhance professionalism, emotional intelligence, and project

management. We nurtured a generation

of confident professionals who lead initiatives, build strong workplace cultures, and

rise into roles once thought beyond their

reach.

In recent years, we have focused on the

Fourth Industrial Revolution, a shift that

redefined the skills landscape. We have

tackled automation, digital

transformation, and the reshaping of

administrative functions. You have

responded with agility, courage, and a

commitment to continuous learning.

And now, as we gather for our 13th

conference, we enter a new frontier:

Artificial Intelligence. AI is no longer a

distant concept; it is here and

transforming how we work. This year, we

focus on helping office professionals

adapt to AI, embrace it, and make it work

for them. Whether using AI tools to

streamline workflows, improve

decision-making, or enhance creativity,

the future belongs to those who are ready

to lead with human and artificial

intelligence.

As the Founder, I am profoundly

proud—not just of the skills our delegates

have acquired but of who they’ve become.

I’ve watched administrators rise into

management roles, start businesses,

return to study, and mentor others with

confidence. You’ve grown not only as

professionals but as people—with

resilience, purpose, and power.

This conference is more than an

event—it’s a movement. And if you’re

ready to grow, to lead, and to thrive in the

AI era, then this is your time

Slindile Ngobese had an Interview with the Deputy Director at the MUT TLDC Unit, Dr Phiwayinkosi Gumede who briefly spoke about the successes of the Focus Conference since its establishment 11 years ago.

Slindile Ngobese had an Interview with the Vice Chancellor at the University of London, Professor Adam Habib who delivered the keynote plenary session of the day.

Dr Gumede of MUT from TLDC welcomes the conference on day two and also welcomes Professor Adam Habib to deliver his speech as a key note speaker.

Slindile Ngobese had an Interview with MUT Agriculture Lecturer, Dr Awonke Mbangi facilitated the session where he spoke about Supporting Under-prepared Students Through Emerging Technologies and Inclusive Pedagogical Strategies